Human Osteologist

MOLA is seeking to recruit talented and experienced osteologists to join a major collaborative project in London. Working as part of a dedicated team, successful candidates will contribute to advancing our understanding of the past through the identification, assessment, recording, analysis, interpretation and reporting of human remains.

This exciting project focuses on the analysis of large assemblages of human remains and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research into the lives, health, disease, mortality and burial practices of late post-medieval populations in London and beyond.

Applicants must hold a degree in archaeology or a related discipline, together with a postgraduate qualification in osteology or a related subject. Candidates should have demonstrable experience of analysis-level recording of human remains, ideally within a commercial archaeology environment, and excellent bone identification skills. Experience working with post-medieval assemblages and palaeopathological analysis would be advantageous.

Successful candidates will be able to work rapidly and accurately under pressure, meeting agreed project timescales and budgets while maintaining high professional standards. Strong written and verbal communication skills, good IT literacy, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are essential. Training will be provided in the use of MOLA databases and client reporting systems where required.

The role will involve close collaboration with osteologists, field staff and wider project teams, contributing to both commercial delivery and ongoing research objectives. Candidates with an interest in publication, research and professional development are encouraged to apply.

This is an excellent opportunity to work on a nationally significant assemblage within a leading professional osteology team.

Contracts will initially be fixed term for up to 31 months, with possibility of extension, with start dates from 1st July 2026.

If you would like more information regarding the opportunity or an informal discussion about the role, please contact Don Walker – Team Leader – Osteology - dwalker@mola.org.uk

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