Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology

Leipzig, Germany

The Department of Human Evolution of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary 

Anthropology, Leipzig (Germany), invites applications for a doctoral candidate 

position (PhD) focusing on isotopic analysis of zooarchaeological remains from 

Palaeolithic sites. In the Department, palaeoanthropological research is conducted 

within a multidisciplinary environment involving groups of scientists including 

biological anthropologists, Palaeolithic archaeologists, archaeological scientists, and 

geochronologists. Isotope mass spectrometry forms a significant component of the 

archaeological sciences group with a well-equipped laboratory. More information 

about the Department and the labs can be found on our web site. 

We are seeking a doctoral candidate to further refine the methodological and practical 

parameters for the use of stable isotope analysis of ungulate teeth/bone as a 

palaeoenvironmental proxy. The aim is to enhance our understanding of past 

temperatures/environments, palaeoseasonality and past hominin landscape use, 

generating site- and region-specific and diachronic datasets. The programme of 

research will include study design, sample collection, analysis, methodological 

development, and publication. 

This position begins September, 2016, with full funding for 3 years and an optional 

fourth year as required. The position is primarily based in Leipzig at the MPI-EVA. 

The candidate will complete a cumulative thesis of papers. Applicants must have 

completed a Master’s degree by September, 2016. The ideal candidate will have prior 

experience in isotopic chemistry and/or isotope analysis as applied to archaeology or 

palaeoclimate reconstruction.

The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more physically impaired 

individuals and to increasing the share of women in areas where they are 

underrepresented, and therefore expressly encourages applications from such qualified 

For further information please contact Prof. Jean-Jacques Hublin (hublin

eva.mpg.de) or Dr. Kate Britton (kate_britton eva.mpg.de). Applications should 

include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, reprints of selected publications, a short 

statement of research interests, and the names of three referees. Please hand in these 

documents during the application process.