Please note this vacancy is open to the students of the University of Reading ONLY
Quest (Quaternary Scientific) is a well-established enterprise within the School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science (SAGES). We provide an expert Archaeological Science service to archaeological units, environmental consultancies, government organisations, charities and university-led research projects (for more information visit
We are looking for a highly motivated Professional Placement Year student to join the Quest team for a 12-month placement role starting over the summer of 2025. In order to apply for the role, you must be a student reaching the end of your second year and on a degree at the University of Reading with a professional placement year (or looking to convert onto this degree program).
The role will incorporate field, laboratory and office-based work in the fields of Quaternary Science / Environmental Archaeology, focussing on a range of single and multi-period sites from across the UK and north-western Europe. During the course of the placement year, you will contribute to borehole surveys, record and interpret deposits, extract stratigraphic data from secondary sources and undertake deposit modelling. Within the laboratory you will undertake different sediment characterisation techniques, extract a variety of faunal and floral remains and assist technical staff in the overall running of the laboratory and archiving of samples/data. See job description for further information.
Closing date: 31/03/2025
Interview date: Within first two weeks of April 25
Contact details:
Contact Name: Dr Rob Batchelor
Contact Job: Director of Quest
Contact Email address: c.r.batchelor@reading.ac.uk
Alternative Contact Name: Dr Mike Simmonds
Alternative Contact Job Title: Senior Project Manager
Alternative Contact Email address: m.j.simmonds@reading.ac.uk
Candidates who do not already have permission to work in the UK should note that by reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship will not be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.