Postdoctoral Position at the Centre for Paleogenetics

The Department of Archaeology and Ancient History is Sweden's largest archaeological environment.

The department conducts research and teaching in several different areas. It consists of six units: archaeology, archaeological research laboratory, numismatic research group, osteoarchaeological research laboratory, ancient culture and society, and the Centre for Paleogenetics.

The Centre for Paleogenetics (CPG) is a research center with world-leading facilities and expertise to generate and analyze prehistoric DNA data. CPG consists of seven research leaders and approximately 40 employees, and is jointly funded by the Swedish Museum of Natural History and institutions within Geosciences, Zoology, and Archaeology at Stockholm University.

More information about us can be found at: https://www.su.se/institutionen-for-arkeologi-och-antikens-kultur/ (https://www.su.se/institutionen-for-arkeologi-och-antikens-kultur/).

Project Description

The Department of Archaeology and Ancient History announces a two-year postdoctoral position starting on 2026-01-01 (a later start date is possible, but will lead to a shorter employment period) based at the Centre for Paleogenetics (CPG) in Stockholm. The position is funded by grants from the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation (First Contact). The project aims to analyze prehistoric DNA from large mammals, primarily woolly mammoths, whose remains are dated to the last ice age. The main goal of the project is to use the latest methods in paleogenomic sequencing combined with 14C dating to investigate whether, and to what extent, demographic and genetic changes in large mammals were correlated with the arrival of modern humans in different regions.

Responsibilities

The position is primarily focused on research, including extraction and analysis of prehistoric DNA using state-of-the-art paleogenomic methods, as well as writing results for publication in scientific journals. The successful candidate is also expected to participate in the daily activities at the Centre for Paleogenetics.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the postdoctoral position, a PhD degree or a foreign degree deemed equivalent to a relevant PhD is required. The degree must be obtained by the time the employment decision is made.

Assessment Criteria

It is advantageous if the PhD or equivalent has been obtained no more than three years before the application deadline. If there are special reasons, an earlier obtained degree may also be considered advantageous. Special reasons refer to leave due to illness, parental leave, union duties, service in total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical service or relevant service/assignments in the subject area.

In the appointment process, special emphasis will be placed on scientific competence, including research knowledge in the subject area. Very good knowledge of, and documented experience in, laboratory analyses of prehistoric DNA, handling large-scale sequencing data using computer scripts, as well as bioinformatics and computational genomics are important merits. Knowledge of both paleogenetic and archaeogenetic issues is also advantageous. Since the position involves collaboration in a larger team of researchers and students, personal qualities such as good collaborative and analytical skills, the ability to work independently and take initiative, as well as a well-developed sense of responsibility, are considered additional merits. A good ability to communicate orally and in writing in English is also regarded as a merit.

About the Position

The position is full-time and is permanent, but for at least two years and at most three years, with the possibility of extension if there are special reasons. Start date is 2026-01-01 or by agreement.

We Offer

With us, you will experience the dynamics of the interplay between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and receive favorable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good connections to the city.

Stockholm University is committed to being a workplace free from discrimination and providing equal rights and opportunities for all.

Contact

Inquiries about the position can be made to Professor Anders Götherström, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]), or Professor Love Dalén, [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

Application

You apply for the position via Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the requested documents in the application form. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that the application is complete and that it reaches the university by the application deadline.

Instructions for applicants can be found on the website: https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-på-su/att-söka-en-anställning (https://www.su.se/om-universitetet/jobba-p%C3%A5-su/att-s%C3%B6ka-en-anst%C3%A4llning).

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