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Archaeology

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Archaeology

Introduction

Archaeology at Aberdeen has a distinctive northern flavour and is far reaching, both in terms of our geographical scope and methodological expertise.

Spanning the circumpolar region from Mongolia to the Canadian Arctic, and the Palaeolithic to the present day, our research incorporates the latest technical, theoretical and scientific approaches in archaeology. Closer to home, our staff are recognised experts in the archaeology of Scotland.

Study Information

At a Glance

Degree Qualification
MSc or PhD

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Related Information

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. Archaeological research at Aberdeen spans the arts and humanities and physical, social and biological sciences, reflecting the inter-disciplinary nature of the Archaeology Department 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, but not limited to:

  • Archaeology of the North
  • Human Palaeoecology & Bioarchaeology
  • Public, Community and Indigenous Archaeologies

Find out more on our departmental website.

Research Interests

Archaeology of the North

At a time when the global North has increasingly become a contested space that pits geopolitical competitions for diminishing natural resources against issues of environmental conservation and sustainability, Aberdeen is at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of our understanding of northern cultural diversity both in the past and present.

Supervisors: Professor Kate Britton, Dr Rebecca Crozier, Dr Charlotta Hillerdal, Dr Edouard Masson-MacLean, Professor Gordon Noble, Dr Jeff Oliver, Dr Michael Stratigos, Dr Joshua Wright

More information about Archaeology of the North

Human Palaeoecology & Bioarchaeology

Research related to the origin, nature and rate of long-term environmental and climatic changes and their impact on human responses. Our staff have in-house methodological specialisms in osteoarchaeology and palaeopathology, zooarchaeology, isotope analysis, ancient DNA and palynology.

Supervisors: Professor Kate Britton, Dr Rebecca Crozier, Dr Linus Girdland Flink, Dr Edouard Masson-MacLean, Dr Michael Stratigos, Professor Tim Mighall (Geography), Dr Ed Schofield (Geography)

More information about Human Palaeoecology & Bioarchaeology

Aberdeen Global Scholarship

Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.

Aberdeen Global Scholarship

Entry Requirements

To apply for this programme you 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

International Applicants

Additional details for international applicants, including information specific to your country or territory, are available here..

Fees and Funding

View the tuition fee rates

International Applicants

More information about Fee status, living costs, and work allowances for international students is available here.

Scholarships

Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Explore this Global Scholarship, including eligibility details, on our dedicated page.

To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.

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World-leading research

90% of Archaeology research at Aberdeen was ranked as world-leading or internationally excellent by REF 2021.

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Useful Fact about this Research Area

Ranked 1st in the UK for Archaeology & Forensic Science (Times and Sunday Good University Guide 2026) and in the Global Top 100 for Archaeology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)

Careers

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. Outside of archaeology and the heritage sector, the skills developed during a PhD in Archaeology are applicable to many areas of graduate-level careers.

Career Opportunities

  • Field Archaeologist
  • Government Officer
  • Heritage Advisor
  • Museum Researcher
  • Project Archaeologist
  • Public Engagement
  • University Lecturer

Features

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Department Research

Department Research

Archaeological research at Aberdeen spans the the arts and humanities, physical and biological sciences, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the Archaeology and the collaborative ethos within the University.

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International community

International community

We are a Scottish university that was founded with international connections. Our community of 3,600 staff and over 14,000 students includes more than 130 nationalities, which enriches our teaching, research, and students' experiences.

Get in Touch

Contact Details

Address
Postgraduate Research School - School of Engineering, Geosciences and Natural and Computing Science
University of Aberdeen
Crombie Hall
Aberdeen
AB24 3TS