At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop your research portfolio in archaeology with mentorship and support.
- Company: McDonald Institute, committed to diversity in academia.
- Benefits: Up to £2,500 relocation costs and £5,000 for training and research expenses.
- Other info: Encouraging applications from candidates of Black identity or heritage.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in archaeology while advancing your academic career.
- Qualifications: PhD defended within seven years; open to all areas of archaeology.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The McDonald Institute invites applications for the fifth annual Fellowship in archaeology (broadly defined), aimed at candidates of Black identity or heritage. The Institute aims to nurture excellence in archaeology regardless of background, and to support diverse knowledges, approaches and practices within the discipline. We recognise that persistent structural inequalities disadvantage people from Black backgrounds and communities, including within higher education and academic research. As such, we are keen to support underrepresented early career researchers of Black identity or heritage in developing their research portfolios and progressing within academia.
This one-year postdoctoral Fellowship is designed to attract research excellence. The successful candidate will receive training, mentorship and support to help drive their career forward and contribute to a more diverse pipeline of future academic talent.
Benefits:- Up to £2,500 relocation costs
- Up to £5,000 for training and research expenses during the Fellowship year
- Eligibility to apply for up to £5,000 per annum (for up to three years) from the D.M. McDonald Grants and Awards Fund following the Fellowship
- Up to £2,500 for one subsequent return visit to Cambridge
The Fellow will also have the opportunity to take up a College Post-Doctoral Associate (CPDA) position at Jesus College for the duration of the Fellowship. It may be possible to extend the Fellowship (excluding the CPDA) for one further University term, subject to funding and circumstances. The successful applicant will take up the Fellowship on 1 October 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Applicants must normally have defended their PhD within seven years of the closing date. Applications are welcomed from all areas of archaeology, broadly construed, including human evolution, heritage and museum studies. There are no restrictions on methodological approach, period, or geographic focus. Applicants should propose a clearly defined research project to be developed over the course of the Fellowship. We strongly encourage applications from candidates of any nationality.
The successful candidate must have, or be able to obtain, the right to live and work in the UK, and support will be provided where appropriate. The Fellowship is open to applicants who self-identify as being of Black identity or heritage, including (but not limited to): Black British, Black African, Black Caribbean, African American, Black American, dual-heritage, and other Black backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Applicants are advised to consult the further particulars before applying, as these contain essential information about the application process and required documentation. Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.
To apply, please register and submit your application via the University of Cambridge recruitment system. Informal enquiries may be addressed to the Deputy Director: opportunities@mcdonald.cam.ac.uk. For queries regarding the application process, please contact Faculty HR: hr@hsps.cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference JC49506 in your application and any correspondence.
Closing date: Midnight (UK time), Monday 25 May 2026.
Research Fellowship for post-holders of Black Identity or Heritage in Cambridge employer: Diversity Dashboard
The McDonald Institute is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion within the field of archaeology. By offering a supportive work culture, comprehensive mentorship, and substantial funding for research and training, the Institute empowers early career researchers of Black identity or heritage to thrive in academia. Located in Cambridge, this Fellowship not only provides valuable professional development opportunities but also contributes to a more equitable academic landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellowship for post-holders of Black Identity or Heritage in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the McDonald Institute. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have a lead on your dream fellowship!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Institute and its values. Understand their commitment to diversity and how your background and research align with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly fits the fellowship's ethos.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to clearly articulate your research project and its significance. Make it engaging and relatable, so they can see your passion and potential impact on the field of archaeology.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, keep an eye on deadlines and follow up if you haven’t heard back – persistence pays off!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellowship for post-holders of Black Identity or Heritage in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:When writing your application, keep in mind who will be reading it. We want to see your passion for archaeology and how your background shapes your perspective. Make sure to highlight your unique experiences and insights!
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate a well-structured application. Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon unless necessary. Clearly outline your research project and its significance to make it easy for us to understand your vision.
Showcase Your Identity:Since this Fellowship is aimed at candidates of Black identity or heritage, don’t shy away from discussing how your identity influences your work. We’re keen to support diverse voices, so let that shine through in your application!
Follow the Guidelines:Make sure to read the further particulars carefully before applying. We’ve laid out essential information about what we need from you, so stick to those requirements to ensure your application is complete and stands out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diversity Dashboard
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you have a deep understanding of your proposed research project. Be ready to discuss your methodology, objectives, and how your work contributes to the field of archaeology. This will show your passion and commitment to your research.
✨Highlight Your Unique Perspective
As a candidate of Black identity or heritage, your experiences and insights are invaluable. Be prepared to articulate how your background informs your research and how it can contribute to diversifying the academic landscape in archaeology.
✨Prepare for Common Questions
Anticipate questions related to your research interests, your career goals, and how you plan to utilise the resources provided by the Fellowship. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Fellowship, mentorship opportunities, and the Institute's vision for supporting diverse researchers. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
