In seeking to understand how ancient people lived their lives, structured their world, and engaged with their environment, archaeologists ask the big questions that can provide us with the tools to tackle global challenges in the present.
Archaeology at Aberdeen has a distinctive northern flavour, spanning the circumpolar region from Mongolia to the Canadian Arctic. Closer to home, our staff are recognised experts in archaeological traces of Pictish society in northern Scotland.
Archaeological research at Aberdeen spans the arts and humanities, physical, social and biological sciences, reflecting the inter-disciplinary nature of the Archaeology and the collaborative ethos at University of Aberdeen.
Our research culture is outward looking and international, exploring big questions in innovative ways. We have developed a collaborative approach to contemporary debates including migration and mobility, climate change, human-environment interactions, culture-contact/change, and the role of the past in the present.
We offer PhD supervision (full-time and part-time) across a range of specialisms including:
Find out more on our departmental website.
Archaeological research in Aberdeen is focused in three thematic areas.
At a time when the need to find new sources of diminishing natural resources, Aberdeen is at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of our understanding of northern cultural diversity both in the past and present.
Supervisors: Dr Kate Britton, Dr Rebecca Crozier, Dr Charlotta Hillerdal, Dr Rick Knecht, Prof. Gordon Noble, Dr Jeff Oliver, Dr Joshua Wright
Research related to the origin, nature and rate of long-term environmental and climatic changes and their impact on human responses.
Supervisors: Dr Kate Britton, Dr Rebecca Crozier, Dr Linus Girdland Flink, Prof. Marc Oxenham
More information about Human Paleoecology & Bioarchaeology
Human Paleoecology & BioarchaeologyArchaeology finds its contemporary relevance in research projects discussing concepts including: identity, heritage, ethics, social engagement, public involvement.
Supervisors: Dr Charlotta Hillerdal, Dr Rick Knecht, Dr Elisabeth Niklasson, Dr Gordon Noble, Dr Jeff Oliver
Community and Indigenous ArchaeologiesTo apply for this programme must have at least a good Honours degree in a related subject or discipline.
If English is not your first language you must also show evidence of attaining standards in English. View English language criteria
International Applicants
Many of our researchers pursue an academic career undertaking research, teaching and curatorial posts in universities, museums and private institutions and work in a range of areas from interpreting ancient environments to communicating archaeology to the public. In addition to more traditional occupations, a growing number of archaeologists are now employed by a range of governmental and non-governmental heritage organisations.
