‘Fragmented Heritage’ AHRC funded Doctoral Award

Starting from January 2014

This studentship is one of an initial three associated with the ‘Fragmented Heritage’ project, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council digital transformations large grant scheme. The majority of archaeological material is fragmentary. This is either by the nature of processes (stone tool production and modification), discard ritual, or by post-depositional processes. A great deal of time is invested in manually refitting material, drawing resources that would otherwise be used for more involved interpretation. Often sites or problems are too large to deal with using current techniques. The ‘Fragmented Heritage’ project aims to assist old and create new methods of refit analysis and site interpretation.

This project will involve an exploration into the range of methods used to identify the degree of post-depositional movement of archaeological and forensic material. The researcher will develop a broad understanding of existing methods and their application to case study sites (see www.fragmentedheritage.com for site details). These methods include quantification of wear traces, refitting, artefact lay, and sedimentary studies to name a few. The primary aim is to test current and develop new methods for identifying post-depositional signature based on lithic microwear study. A key transformative aspect to this PhD will be the significance of this work to other fields including broader artefact conservation and addressing issues of applicability to forensic science (e.g.the rapid imaging and automated refit of exhibits such as glass in casework). The project will be partly experimental but will rely on the study of archaeological material from excavations currently associated with the project and previously excavated material.

Applicants are invited from researchers with a strong interest in site formation processes. Applicants should hold or be in the process of completing a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Archaeology or a field suitable for the project.

To discuss this opportunity further please contact: Dr Adrian Evans aaevans@bradford.ac.uk

This is a fully funded studentship (fees + maintenance). Each eligible student will receive a maintenance grant of £13,726 per annum. Check eligibility here: (http://www.ahrc.ac.uk/SiteCollectionDocuments/Student-Funding-Guide.pdf)

How to Apply:

Along with an application form the following supporting documents are normally required:

• Degree certificates/transcripts
• Contact details for two referees
• Evidence of English language (if required)
• A copy of your passport