Job Description
This is a full time, permanent position.
Closing date: 23:59 on 19th January 2026
Interview date: 4th February 2026
Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker Visa route and eligibility criteria, applicants requiring sponsorship are recommended to check their eligibility on the Home Office website. We cannot provide advice to candidates at the application stage and will only discuss visa routes with candidates who are invited to interview.
Quaternary Scientific are looking to appoint a Senior Project Manager who will oversee a variety of archaeological science research projects as part of the Quaternary Science team. Candidates must have specialist expertise within at least one area of archaeobotanical analysis (e.g. pollen, plant macrofossils, phytoliths) and it is desirable for the candidate to also have a broad knowledge of geoarchaeological processes and deposit modelling.
The role involves academic and developer-funded archaeological science research, contributing to project delivery and income generation, and overseeing fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and specialist reporting. It requires collaborating with clients and regulatory bodies, providing expert advice, and contributing to high-quality publications. The position also includes supervising technical staff, managing geoarchaeology and palaeoenvironmental laboratories, and occasionally supporting teaching and student placements.
You will have:
- Specialist expertise in at least one area of archaeobotanical analysis.
- Extensive experience of interpreting data and compiling reports.
- Academic qualifications to MSc standard in Quaternary science, environmental archaeology, geoarchaeology or a related subject.
- Competency in Project Management.
- Experience of building relationships and working cooperatively and flexibly to achieve objectives.
- Flexible attitude to work and a willingness to learn new skills and to undertake relevant training.
- Competency in archaeological fieldwork (particularly borehole works).
Contact Name: Mike Simmonds
Contact Job Title: Quaternary Scientific Director
Contact Email address: m.j.simmonds@reading.ac.uk
We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
