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Job Title
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Fitch Laboratory Assistant Apprenticeship
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Description
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The British School at Athens (BSA) invites applications from organised, enthusiastic, and highly motivated postgraduate students for the BSA Fitch Laboratory Assistant Apprenticeship. This is a seven-month funded apprenticeship running from October 2026 to April 2027.
The apprenticeship offers individuals with an existing interest in archaeological science the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience in a leading archaeological research laboratory. It is particularly suited to PhD students working in archaeological science, especially those with a focus on Aegean archaeology, and preferably ceramic studies, who may also be able to undertake part of their own laboratory-based research using the Laboratory’s facilities, including reference collections, microscopes and facilities for experimental work.
About the Apprenticeship
During the seven-month appointment, the successful candidate will receive training across a broad range of laboratory activities while contributing to the day-to-day operation of the Fitch Laboratory. Working closely with the Laboratory Administrator, Scientific Research Officer and Laboratory Director, the apprentice will gain valuable practical experience in laboratory procedures, collections management and archaeological research support.
Applicants should reside in Athens for the duration of the apprenticeship.
Key Responsibilities
The Laboratory Assistant Apprentice will:
• Support the day-to-day operation of the Fitch Laboratory in collaboration with the Laboratory Administrator.
• Assist with the preparation, processing and recording of archaeological samples.
• Maintain laboratory records and assist with the organisation of laboratory databases.
• Organise and curate laboratory samples and reference collections.
• Contribute to the ongoing digitisation of the Fitch Laboratory collections.
• Provide support for ongoing research projects, both within the laboratory and, where appropriate, in the field.
• Undertake additional laboratory and collections-related tasks as required.
Essential requirements
Applicants should:
• Hold an undergraduate or Master’s degree in Archaeology or a related subject relevant to the work of the Fitch Laboratory.
• Have an academic interest in Aegean archaeology, with preference given to applicants with experience or research interests in ceramic studies.
• Have experience of laboratory work and preferentially in thin section petrography.
• Have experience in archaeological collections management.
• Be familiar with the use of databases.
• Be fluent in English.
• Demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Be highly organised, motivated and enthusiastic.
• Have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Be able to manage multiple tasks while maintaining a high level of accuracy.
• Demonstrate an interest in the research undertaken by the Fitch Laboratory.
• Show a clear commitment to pursuing a career in archaeological science.
Apprenticeship Benefits
The successful applicant will receive:
• BSA Membership for the duration of the apprenticeship.
• A monthly stipend of £1,333.
• Training, mentoring and supervision from the Laboratory Administrator, Scientific Research Officer and Laboratory Director.
• Valuable practical experience in archaeological science within an internationally recognised research institution.
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Opening Date
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August 31st, 2026
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Deadline
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September 14th, 2026
