Waterloo Uncovered: Using large-scale geophysical survey to investigate the world’s most famous battlefield

Bournemouth University’s vision is worldwide recognition as a leading university for inspiring learning, advancing knowledge and enriching society through the fusion of education, research and practice.

As a fundamental part of this vision, BU and the world-leading military veteran’s charity, Waterloo Uncovered (http://www.waterloouncovered.com), are match-funding a PhD studentship investigating the Napoleonic battlefield of Waterloo, Belgium. Based in the Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, the successful candidate will undertake a detailed exploration of how emerging geophysical techniques can be used to aid in battlefield detection and recovery. Working closely with specialists from BU and the University of Ghent, the candidate will undertake a series of geophysical prospections using a variety of different techniques (including electromagnetic induction and magnetic gradiometry) to test and assess their efficacy and suitability for large-scale geophysical survey.

The studentship position will provide the candidate with the opportunity to undertake research at a world-famous battlefield, working within a multi-disciplinary team to complete a programme of geophysical and archaeological work, to both uncover new archaeological evidence for the battle as well as aid in the recovery and wellbeing of modern military serving soldiers and veterans.

As well as guiding the next 10-year programme of excavation at Waterloo, the research will produce high quality, peer reviewed, international publications that will be invaluable to the geophysics and conflict studies community world-wide, and will enable the candidate to become an expert in battlefield prospection and recovery.

How to apply:

Applications are made via our website using the Apply Online button below. If you have an enquiry about this project please contact us via the Email NOW button below, however your application will only be processed once you have submitted an application form as opposed to emailing your CV to us.

Candidates for a PhD Studentship should demonstrate outstanding qualities and be motivated to complete a PhD in 4 years and must demonstrate:

• Outstanding academic potential as measured normally by either a 1st class honours degree (or equivalent Grade Point Average (GPA) or a Master’s degree with distinction or equivalent
• An IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 minimum (with a minimum 6.0 in each component, or equivalent) for candidates for whom English is not their first language and this must be evidenced at point of application.

Ideally the candidate will have previous experience of undertaking geophysical surveys, preferably in an archaeological context. A working knowledge of French would be desirable, but not essential. Experience in engaging with stakeholders or contributing to outreach activities would also be valuable.