The McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research at the University of Cambridge invites applications for the prestigious McDonald Institute Cambridge International Entangled PhD Scholarship 2025 batch. This fully-funded 3-year PhD opportunity, beginning in October 2025, forms part of the groundbreaking project “Entangled materialities and new global histories from southern Africa (ENTANGLED)”, co-funded by the Cambridge Trust and a UKRI Frontier Research Grant.
This unique interdisciplinary project aims to uncover the rich maritime economies of southern Mozambique and their connection to the Indian Ocean World during the Global Middle Ages (500–1500 CE). Through rigorous analysis of trade routes, material culture, and the role of coastal communities, ENTANGLED aims to reposition southern Africa within global history.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees at the UKRI rate for three years.
- Stipend for maintenance costs, with an additional discretionary maintenance period of 6–12 months for dissertation finalization.
- Fieldwork costs in Mozambique.
- Immigration health surcharge and visa fees for non-UK citizens.
- Parental leave maintenance payments.
- Funding for conference attendance and professional development.
PhD Focus Areas
The successful applicant will:
- Conduct fieldwork in Mozambique, analyzing excavated materials from coastal regions.
- Develop expertise in materials-based analytical techniques.
- Be supervised by leading archaeologists, Dr. Abigail Moffett and Professor Paul Lane, at the University of Cambridge.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and professionals based in the UK, Mozambique, and internationally.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Meet the University of Cambridge’s PhD application requirements for Archaeology (details here).
- Hold (or expect to obtain) a Master’s degree in Archaeology or a related discipline, with a focus on southern Africa.
- Demonstrate interest or experience in material culture studies or relevant interdisciplinary methods.
- Have linguistic skills in Portuguese or Xitswa (or be willing to acquire them during the PhD).
- Show willingness to undertake fieldwork in Mozambique.
Application Process
To apply, submit your application for the PhD in Archaeology via the Applicant Portal.
Include the following:
- Statement of Research Interest indicating your application for the McDonald Institute Cambridge International Entangled Scholarship.
- Cover letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining your suitability and how you will contribute to the project.
- Indicate funding interest from the Cambridge Trust and select the McDonald Institute Cambridge International Entangled Scholarship as your funding source.
Announcement: https://www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/49159/.
Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 7 January 2025.