Research opportunities in the Department of Archaeology

The Department of Archaeology at York is a vibrant research community and a centre of excellent research-led teaching. As well as core strengths in prehistoric, medieval and historical archaeology, we also specialise in digital archaeology and bioarchaeology, cultural heritage, architectural conservation, and landscape research.

As a PhD student, you can specialise in either Archaeology or Conservation Studies.

Why us?

• We’re ranked 6th overall for our research according to the Times Higher Education’s ranking of the latest REF results (2021)
• 100% of our research environment, the support we give to our researchers, is rated 4* - REF’s highest rating 
• Ranked 18th in the world for Archaeology in QS University Rankings by subject 2021
• Awarded the Queen's Anniversary Prize in recognition of our outstanding and innovative approaches to archaeology
• York is one of the most important historic locations in England, and an incredibly rich source of archaeological material
• Thriving interdisciplinary research community, with research seminars run within the Department and at the Centres for Medieval Studies and Eighteenth Century Studies, and in the Department of Biology

We are committed to bridging the sciences and the humanities through archaeological research. Our academics are pioneers of research into the natural and built environment, its management and sustainability. We are a centre of excellence for the interpretation and management of cultural heritage around the world, developing new digital methods to make archaeological data sustainable and accessible, and we aim to effectively integrate the latest bioscience technologies across the humanities.

Our research is centred around eight key strengths:

• Digital archaeology
• Roman, Medieval and Historical
• Bioarchaeology
• Field archaeology
• Human evolution and prehistory
• Buildings conservation and heritage
• Experimental archaeology and artefact studies
• African archaeology

We offer:

• A dedicated IT suite with a full range of software, including specialist archaeological packages, and expert support
• A comprehensive range of field survey equipment available for project work
• Advanced metric survey equipment, including rectified photography, photogrammetry, laser scanning, CAD drawing and computer-modelling systems
• A wide range of laboratory facilities for archaeological analysis, including environmental and artefact processing, as well as specialist bioarchaeological facilities on campus
• A wealth of unique research resources including the Minster Library and Archives, the King's Manor Library and the Borthwick Institute for Archives
• Stimulating programme of research seminars, conferences, public lectures and symposia attracting national and international researchers
• Opportunity for funding through research councils

Distance Learning

We also offer a Distance Learning PhD in both Archaeology and Conservation Studies, for those who need more flexible residence requirements than our conventional PhD degree. You will be required to visit York in person for at least two weeks per year, either in a single block or across the year. Many Distance Learning students play an active role in our postgraduate research community, and we strive to make sure you feel like a part of that community.

If you are interested in studying through Distance Learning, please discuss this with any potential supervisors.

What next?

Check that your research interests align with the expertise of one of our staff. Once you've identified a potential supervisor, please contact them before applying to discuss your application and potential research areas.

Complete an application:

PhD in Archaeology

PhD in Conservation Studies

Contact us

archaeology-pg@york.ac.uk

+44 (0)1904 323903

Research degrees in the Department of Archaeology

Research in the Department of Archaeology

Department of Archaeology

Funding

Funding for research degrees