The ERC Ancient Adhesives project addresses a crucial problem in Palaeolithic archaeology: How to infer complex behaviour in the deep past. In this project we tackle this by applying process modelling to glue technology. By documenting glue production, use and discard in a formal notation (e.g. Petri nets) we can assess the complexity of the models. We are looking for a dependable and creative team player to collect the data that will be used in the computer models. 

As a project researcher you will collect information on glue technology from a wide range of sources: experimental archaeology, ethnography and (pre)historic archaeology. You will record the data in such a way that it is readily usable to the project’s computational scientist who will build the models. As part of this position, you will be affiliated both with TU Delft and Leiden University (Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science) playing an integrating role between archaeologists and computer scientists.
Tasks include:

• Collect data on glue use, production and recycling from ethnographic, archaeological and historic sources.
• Collect data on glue manufacturing and usage through observations during experimentation and ethnographic fieldwork in Zambia and Ethiopia (2 to 3 weeks each).
• Deposit data in a meaningful way.
• Produce teaching materials (poster; hand-out) as part of the benefit sharing initiative in Zambia and Ethiopia.
• Assist with project management, assist to create a project web presence, co-organise workshop.
• (Co) author scientific articles and proposals to secure funding.

Required qualifications and qualities:

• PhD degree in Archaeology or Anthropology
  or
• Master degree Archaeology or Anthropology with proven post-graduation research experience and project management
• Demonstrable experience in at least one of these fields:
      - Palaeolithic archaeology
      - Anthropological / ethnobotanical fieldwork  
      - Social science fieldwork/observational experience
      - Computational (social) science and modelling
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken) and a good sense of humour.

Fixed-term contract: 1 year; possible extension of one year.

This position has an amount of max 30 working hours per week (0.6 - 0.8 fte). The salary depends on your qualifications and experience and is based on scale 10 with a maximum of € 4274, - gross per month on a fulltime basis.
Contract duration: 1 year with the intent to extend with 1 year, provided that there is a good team and project match.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The 3mE Faculty trains committed engineering students, PhD candidates and post-doctoral researchers in groundbreaking scientific research in the fields of mechanical, maritime and materials engineering. 3mE is the epitome of a dynamic, innovative faculty, with a European scope that contributes demonstrable economic and social benefits.

The department of Materials Science and Engineering of the faculty 3mE aims to provide internationally recognised, high quality research of benefit to industry and society, addressing lifecycle, structure, properties and functionality from a physicochemical perspective. Within the Department, the Materials in Art and Archaeology Section develops and applies ground-breaking, analytical concepts for studying (pre)historic objects. Our expertise centres on the elemental, structural and molecular characterisation of materials for technical art history and conservation. We have close collaborations with (inter)nationally leading partners in art, archaeology and science. We bridge the gap between the sciences and the humanities in both education and research. 

‘Ancient adhesives: a window on prehistoric technology’ is funded by the ERC through a Starting Grant. The team comprises the project investigator, 4 postdocs, 1 PhD student and 1 technician. At Leiden University you will collaborate with Dr Jetty Kleijn, process modelling expert, and Dr Frank Takes, network specialist. You will also work with Prof. Tinde van Andel, ethnobotanist at Naturalis Biodiversity Centre. If needed, and in collaboration with the project partners, you will receive training in ethnographic fieldwork and process modelling.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me