At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team investigating Neolithic resource exploitation through innovative biomolecular research.
- Company: University of Bristol and UCL, leading in organic geochemistry and cultural evolution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for career development.
- Other info: Open-ended contract with potential for extension; inclusive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on understanding prehistoric diets and resource use.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field; PhD preferred; strong interest in archaeology.
The predicted salary is between 39906 - 50253 £ per year.
The role
The successful applicant will join leading international researchers in the Organic Geochemistry Unit (University of Bristol) and the Molecular and Cultural Evolution Lab (MACE; University College London), to investigate the dichotomy between farmed and aquatic resource exploitation during the Neolithic. By testing specific hypotheses, the applicant will contribute to the AquaNeo research project, investigating the role and importance of aquatic resources in Prehistory. The role is based in the School of Chemistry at the University of Bristol, with regular visits to the Molecular and Cultural Evolution Lab at UCL.
What will you be doing?
The main purpose of the RA\'s role will be creative and novel collaborative scientific research, focused on biomolecular data generated from Neolithic pottery sherds to estimate dietary components, evaluate subsistence strategies, and test hypotheses about past aquatic resource exploitation within a formal model comparison framework.
You should apply if
You should have:
- A degree in a relevant subject (Data science, Statistics, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Biology, Archaeology).
- Desirable to have a PhD (awarded or imminent) in a relevant subject and involving statistical data analyses and formal model comparison.
- Experience or a strong interest in archaeological questions.
- Ability to publish scientific manuscripts, data reports and summaries.
- Experience of liaison with external collaborators and organisations.
Additional information
Contract type: Open ended (funding available until 31.03.2027)
The position is funded for a fixed term of 17 months with a starting date of November 2025. Further funding may become available to extend this employment.
Work pattern: Full-time or part-time hours considered
Grade: I/J/Pathway 2
Salary: Grade I: £39,906-£44,746 per annum or Grade J: £43,482-£50,253 per annum depending on experience
School/Unit: School of Chemistry
This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 22/10/2025
Interviews are anticipated to take place at the end of October 2025
For informal queries, please contact: Dr Melanie Roffet-Salque, melanie.salque@bristol.ac.uk; Prof Mark Thomas, m.thomas@ucl.ac.uk
Our strategy and mission
We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values.
The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives - particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.
Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Biomolecular Statistical Analysis in Bristol employer: University of Bristol Law School
The University of Bristol is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in research. As part of the AquaNeo project, you will have the opportunity to work alongside leading international researchers, contributing to meaningful scientific inquiries while benefiting from professional development and growth opportunities. Located in a dynamic academic environment, the university prioritises diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees can thrive and reach their full potential.
Contact Details:
University of Bristol Law School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Biomolecular Statistical Analysis in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Bristol and UCL. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the role and help us stand out when we apply.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the AquaNeo project. Understanding the research focus will show our genuine interest and help us ask insightful questions that impress the panel.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our skills in statistical analysis and data interpretation during the interview. Bring examples of past projects where we've used these skills, especially if they relate to archaeological questions.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining the team at the University of Bristol.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Biomolecular Statistical Analysis in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in biomolecular statistical analysis and archaeological research. We want to see how your background fits with the AquaNeo project, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your expertise aligns with our research goals. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of the project.
Showcase Your Research Skills:Don’t forget to mention any experience you have with publishing scientific manuscripts or collaborating with external partners. We’re looking for someone who can contribute creatively to our research, so let us know what you’ve done!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Bristol Law School
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the AquaNeo project and understand its objectives. Familiarise yourself with the dichotomy between farmed and aquatic resource exploitation during the Neolithic. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with statistical data analyses and formal model comparison. Be ready to provide examples of how you've applied these skills in previous research or projects, especially if they relate to archaeological questions or biomolecular data.
✨Collaborative Spirit
Highlight your ability to work with external collaborators and organisations. Share specific instances where you've successfully liaised with others in a research setting, as this role involves collaboration with leading international researchers.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about the research environment, team dynamics, and future projects. This shows that you're not just interested in the position but also in how you can contribute to and grow within the team.
