Job Details

Position Title: ASPR Junior Fellow – Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
Type: Full-Time
Location: Harvard University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department: American School of Prehistoric Research (ASPR)
Salary: $80,000/year + $20,000 research stipend
Posted: 11/29/2025
Application Deadline: January 25, 2026

Overview:
The American School of Prehistoric Research (ASPR) at Harvard University invites applications for Junior Fellowships in Old World prehistory. These postdoctoral research fellowships are designed for recent PhDs pursuing independent, high-quality research. Fellows are expected to be in residence at Harvard during the academic year, aside from fieldwork, and may offer one course in the second year of their appointment.

Appointments are for two years, with the possibility of extension to three years. Each cohort typically includes two Junior Fellows, although appointments may not be offered annually. Fellows receive a competitive salary, full benefits, and a research stipend to support their projects. The fellowship begins July 1, 2026.

Basic Qualifications:

• PhD in Anthropology, Archaeology, or related fields with a focus on Old World prehistory.

• Candidates should be within three years of PhD completion at the start of the fellowship.

• Eligible candidates may be of any nationality.

Additional Qualifications:

• Fellows will be affiliated with one or more Harvard academic departments and assigned a faculty mentor, typically in Anthropology or Human Evolutionary Biology.

• Candidates must demonstrate a record of high-quality, independent research.

• Prior communication with faculty sharing similar research interests is encouraged.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct independent research in Old World prehistory.

• Optionally teach one course in the second year of the fellowship.

• Participate in ASPR and departmental activities, seminars, and events.

Application Instructions:
Applicants must submit the following:

1. Research Proposal (maximum 1000 words) outlining the research project for the fellowship.

2. Curriculum Vitae detailing academic achievements and qualifications.

3. Two Letters of Recommendation evaluating scholarly work and potential.

4. Transcripts from undergraduate and graduate education.

5. 1–3 samples of independent work (published papers or equivalent).

Submit applications by: January 25, 2026

Contact Information:

• Clara Alexander – calexander@fas.harvard.edu

• Dan Lieberman – danlieb@fas.harvard.edu

• Rowan Flad – rflad@fas.harvard.edu

Keywords: fellowship, postdoc, postdoctoral, archaeology, prehistory, anthropology

Equity Statement:
Harvard University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.