The University of Gothenburg, standing as a beacon of academic excellence, presents an exciting opportunity for prospective Ph.D. candidates within the ambit of the HORIZON Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action Doctoral Network ArCHe. The initiative focuses on unraveling the mysteries of "Archaeological Coastal Heritage: Past, present and future of a hidden prehistoric legacy," with a broader goal of enhancing the scientific and public value of Europe's archaeological coastal heritage. This particular Ph.D. position, designated as Doctoral Candidate 8 (DC8), is intricately linked to the overarching objectives of the Doctoral Network ArCHe.
Embarking on a four-year project titled "Stone age heritage as shared landscapes: Mapping concerns, actors, and perspectives," DC8 will be situated at the School of Global Studies, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, with the anticipated commencement in August 2024. The financial package accompanying this opportunity is comprehensive, including a monthly living allowance of 31,800 SEK, a mobility allowance of 6,000 SEK, and a family allowance of 4,950 SEK (if eligible). DC8's research endeavors align with the broader aim of exploring how existing and future archaeological activities in shared landscapes can be made locally relevant, sustainable, and attuned to contemporary dynamics at multiple scales.
The project's scope encompasses an in-depth examination of three case study areas in Europe – Norway, Western France, and Latvia. DC8's mission is to map different actors involved in these landscapes, including local community enthusiasts, municipal administrations, builders, planners, cultural heritage management actors, scientists, and environmental protection groups. The goal is to gain insights into the interests, challenges, and opportunities that may influence the future management and use of these archaeological sites. Employing anthropological methods and interdisciplinary approaches, such as focus groups, participatory mapping, and short surveys, DC8's research promises to provide nuanced insights into the socio-material dynamics shaping these shared landscapes.
The broader impact of DC8's project is underscored by its alignment with the overarching goals of ArCHe. By fostering consciousness and reflexivity among site stakeholders, strengthening public dialogue, and promoting inclusiveness, DC8's work contributes not only to academic knowledge but also to societal engagement and heritage preservation. The Ph.D. candidate will undergo academic secondments to esteemed institutions such as the University of Oslo, CNRS/University of Rennes in France, and the University of Latvia, providing a cross-regional comparative perspective. Additionally, non-academic secondments include a valuable experience with Viken County Council in Norway, enhancing understanding of regional management of archaeological sites and cultural landscapes.
The eligibility criteria for this opportunity adhere to the MSCA guidelines, ensuring that candidates meet the mobility rule and are doctoral candidates. Language proficiency in English is a prerequisite, with knowledge of Scandinavian or French considered a merit. This Ph.D. position not only promises academic rigor but also provides a unique platform for personal and professional growth through interdisciplinary collaboration, exposure to diverse perspectives, and meaningful contributions to the field of archaeological coastal heritage. Prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline on March 6th, 2024. For further inquiries, Professor Maris Gillette can be contacted at maris.gillette@gu.se or +46 73 541 90 61. The University actively fosters a working environment with equal conditions, acknowledging and valuing the diversity that enriches its academic endeavors.
Let's delve into more detailed points surrounding the Ph.D. position within the HORIZON Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action Doctoral Network ArCHe at the University of Gothenburg:
1. Interdisciplinary Research Landscape:
- The ArCHe initiative offers a unique interdisciplinary research landscape, providing Ph.D. candidates with exposure to various fields such as archaeology, anthropology, critical heritage studies, Bioarcheology, geology, oceanography, coastal engineering/preservation, and communication. This diverse knowledge base equips candidates with a comprehensive understanding applicable to both academic and non-academic realms.
2. Training and Skill Development:
- The selected candidate, DC8, will undergo extensive training in qualitative social science research methodologies. This includes participant observation, interviews, focus groups, photo elicitation, participatory mapping, sensory walks, and short surveys. These skills contribute not only to the success of the Ph.D. project but also to the broader skill set essential for a career in research and academia.
3. Comparative Regional Perspective:
- DC8's project involves cross-regional comparative perspectives through academic secondments to Norway, France, and Latvia. This exposure ensures that the research outcomes are enriched with diverse regional insights, contributing to a more holistic understanding of Stone Age heritage and its contemporary relevance.
4. Financial Support Package:
- The financial support package accompanying this Ph.D. position is noteworthy. With a monthly living allowance, mobility allowance, and family allowance (if eligible), the University of Gothenburg demonstrates its commitment to supporting Ph.D. candidates both in their academic pursuits and personal well-being.
5. Integration of Prehistoric Heritage:
- DC8's research explicitly aims to explore how prehistoric hunter-fisher-gatherer traces can be best integrated into future planning and use of landscapes in a sensitive and inclusive manner. This aspect of the project holds significance not only for academic knowledge but also for sustainable infrastructure development, tourism, and cultural heritage preservation.
6. Ethical Considerations and Reflexivity:
- The project places emphasis on ethics implications, fostering consciousness, and reflexivity among site stakeholders, including researchers and other actors. This approach ensures that the research is conducted with integrity, respects diverse perspectives, and actively contributes to public dialogue.
7. Contribution to Sustainable Resource Management:
- DC8's training and expected results align with a career trajectory in sustainable natural and cultural resource management. By addressing concerns, actors, and perspectives in shared landscapes, the project contributes to the visibility, preservation, and sustainable integration of vulnerable cultural heritage in coastal areas facing global environmental and development challenges.
8. International Collaborative Network:
- Being part of the HORIZON Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action Doctoral Network ArCHe exposes DC8 to an international collaborative network. The collaboration involves six beneficiaries and nine associated partners, including academic research centers and non-academic organizations. This network enhances the candidate's exposure and facilitates cross-fertilization of knowledge.
Prospective candidates considering this Ph.D. opportunity should carefully consider these aspects, recognizing the broader impact and potential for personal and professional growth within a vibrant research community.
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