Postdoctoral Research Associate in Microplastics in Archaeological Samples (Archaeology, Environmental Science, Chemistry) University of Lincoln in United Kingdom

University of Lincoln is advertising a Post-Doctoral Research Associate in Microplastics in Archaeological Samples (ref. CHS325) within the School of Natural Sciences. This is a 30-month, full-time postdoctoral role funded through the UKRI/AHRC-supported MicroPast project, Challenging the Preservation Paradigm: The Impact of Microplastics on the Integrity of Archaeological Soils and Sediments.

The project is coordinated by the University of York and involves York Archaeology Trust and the University of Hull, with the Lincoln-based post overseen by Professor Jeanette Rotchell. The research focuses on the presence of microplastic contamination in archaeological sediments from sites around the UK and its impacts on selected artefacts.

The successful candidate will lead blended field- and laboratory-based research, including dataset compilation and analysis, geospatial assessment of contamination risk, sampling decisions with stakeholders, sample digestion and filtration, microplastics analysis using micro-Fourier Transform InfraRed spectroscopy, and a long-term mesocosm investigation using soils and sediments spiked with microplastics. The role also includes producing presentations, reports, papers, and other publications of national and international standing.

Funding and terms: salary from £38,784 per annum; fixed-term for 30 months; full-time at 1 FTE.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should be prepared to work across archaeology, environmental science, geochemistry, and analytical chemistry, and collaborate with researchers across partner universities and project networks.

How to apply: submit an application through the University of Lincoln jobs portal using the online vacancy page. If you have questions, contact Professor Jeanette Rotchell at [email protected].

Deadline: Friday 17 July 2026.