The Faculty of Classics – University of Oxford seeks to appoint a Research Associate in Herculaneum Papyrology to join the Humanities and AI Virtual Institute–funded project ‘Meeting the Vesuvius Challenge’, a collaboration between the Faculty of Classics and the Vesuvius Challenge. The postholder will conduct advanced papyrological research on texts extracted from the Herculaneum scrolls and contribute to the refinement of innovative AI-assisted text extraction techniques. The role combines high-level scholarship, graduate teaching, and collaborative research within an internationally significant interdisciplinary initiative.
This is a full-time, fixed-term post (24 months) from October 2026 to September 2028, based in the Faculty of Classics. The post is Grade 7: £39,424 – £47,779 per annum.
About the role
Reporting to the Head of Administration and Finance and working within the project team led by Professor Tobias Reinhardt, the postholder will undertake independent research on texts extracted from the Herculaneum scrolls, managing their own academic and administrative activities to meet project objectives. They will adapt and develop research methodologies, analyse qualitative and quantitative data, and contribute to refining AI-assisted text extraction techniques in collaboration with project partners.
The role includes training and supporting Master’s and doctoral students in papyrology and Herculaneum papyrology. The postholder will deliver up to eight hours of graduate teaching per academic year and supervise students on the M.St. in Greek and/or Latin Languages & Literature.
The successful candidate will contribute to research publications and book chapters, develop proposals for new research and funding opportunities, and present findings at conferences and seminars. They will collaborate with colleagues across partner institutions, represent the research group externally, and act as a point of contact for academic visitors and stakeholders, contributing to the wider academic activities of the Faculty.
What is being offered
-An excellent contributory pension scheme
-38 days’ annual leave
-A comprehensive range of childcare services
-Family leave schemes
-Cycle loan scheme
-Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
-Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
Application process
Candidates are required to upload a supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of their online application. Their supporting statement should explicitly explain how they fulfil the selection criteria detailed in the job description.
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday, 16 March 2026. Only applications received before this time can be considered.
Shortlisting is expected to take place the following week, and interviews are expected to take place in mid-April.
