Assistant Position in Climate Archaeology / Prehistoric Archaeology

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Start Date February 1, 2027 or by arrangement
Employment Relationship 80%, permanent
Institution / Workplace Institute of Archaeological Sciences (IAW) Bern
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About us

The Department of Prehistoric Archaeology (PA) at the Institute of Archaeological Sciences (IAW), associated with the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research (OCCR) at the University of Bern, Switzerland, is searching for an outstanding and motivated prehistoric archaeologist with interest and experience in Climate Archaeology. The position provides an excellent opportunity to specialize in the vibrating field of prehistoric wetland and climate archaeology, sharpening the research profile in a competitive interdisciplinary environment, and enrich the teaching portfolio.

Responsibilities

  • Assisting with tasks arising in teaching and research within the PA department
  • Development of research projects and grant proposals for external funding (incl. own project)
  • Collaborating on publications and other scientific output within the research group
  • Support/conduction of archaeological fieldwork in wetland- and alpine archaeological contexts including excavations, coring and surveys in Switzerland and abroad
  • Teaching of 2 courses per term
  • Co-supervision of seminar papers, BA and MA theses
  • General administrative duties

Requirements

  • Excellent MA or PhD, preferably in European prehistoric archaeology
  • Experience with archaeological fieldwork and documentation systems
  • Experience in climate archaeology, environmental archaeology, dendroarchaeology, or paleo- resp. climate sciences is beneficial
  • Demonstrated proficiency in computational archaeology (Statistics/Data modelling)
  • Experience and interest in teaching
  • Proficiency in German and English, other European languages are beneficial

Your Benefits

Benefit
Research group membership at the OCCR upon successful evaluation
Benefit
Strong research infrastructure and international network
Benefit
Collaborative environment and ambitious team
Benefit
Individual career support
Other benefits

Your Benefits

  • Research group membership at the OCCR upon successful evaluation
  • Strong research infrastructure and international network
  • Collaborative environment and ambitious team
  • Individual career support

Working at the University of Bern

The University of Bern not only offers exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us stand out as an employer and how you can grow with us.

Application and Contact

Interested candidates submit a single pdf file containing: 1.) letter of motivation incl. contact details, 2.) CV incl. date of birth, 3.) relevant certificates incl. MA and PhD, 4.) output list, 5.) project list incl. successful grant applications, 6.) proof of teaching experience, 7.) references.

Applications should be sent to Prof. Dr. Caroline Heitz (caroline.heitz@unibe.ch) who will also answer to questions regarding this position. Application deadline is 1.10.2026. The start of the position is preferably in February 2027.

Questions about the position?

Prof. Dr. Caroline Heitz
E-Mail: caroline.heitz@unibe.ch

Questions about the application?

Prof. Dr. Caroline Heitz
E-Mail: caroline.heitz@unibe.ch

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