Jeanette Rotchell

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.