University of Bradford and Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery Â
Two Posts
1) Burial and Identity in Early Medieval Norfolk
This research will encompass a detailed analysis of the types of cemetery and the differing forms of burial within these cemeteries throughout the early medieval period. Through the comparison of biological identity (age, sex) and mode of burial, this research will reveal important patterns in the way identity was expressed through burial rites throughout the Anglo-Saxon period. Importantly it will assess the changes observed in burial form around the time of the Conversion and associated with the two diasporas – to what extent did these important events alter burial provision, or were they merely historically noted pin points within a longer period of gradual change? To what extent were social aspects of identity such as age, sex and status reflected in burial rites, and did this vary throughout the period?
Supervised by: Dr Jo Buckberry (UoB), Dr Julie Bond (UoB) and Dr Tim Pestell (NCMAG)
2) People and Animals in Early Medieval Cemeteries
Work by Bond and others has demonstrated that the Anglo-Saxons of eastern England routinely included animal offerings in cremations and less often in inhumations. In the past these bones have been regarded as simple food offerings but research suggests that animals played many different roles, perhaps as food, status, transport, companions, or to convey shamanistic beliefs. This project will reassess the evidence for animal offerings (whole animals, body parts, amulets and other artefacts made from animals) in inhumations and cremations from Norfolk. The research will consider the range, age and completeness of animals, patterns of burial, taphonomy and treatment of the animals and possible animal symbolism in order to understand the roles that they may have played in the burial ritual. This project will also investigate grave goods in later burials which may show continuity of earlier beliefs and new ideas from Scandinavian culture.
Supervised by: Dr Julie Bond (UoB), Dr Jo Buckberry (UoB) and Dr Tim Pestell (NCMAG)
Funding and Working Arrangements:
Both students will be registered full time at the University of Bradford. They are expected to be based in Bradford for the first and third years of study, and in Norwich for the second year of study. While in Bradford, the students will be offered the opportunity to gain teaching experience. While in Norwich, the students will gain experience of working in a museum environment, to include public outreach activities.
Both studentships are fully funded (fees + maintenance). Each student will receive a maintenance grant of £13,726 per annum plus an additional £550 per annum towards any additional expenses incurred while working at the partner institution (NCMAG)
For further information and how to apply, please click the Apply button below.
Closing Date: Wednesday 10th July at 5pm. Interviews will be held on 23rd, 24th or 25th July.
The successful candidate will start September/October 2013.