Ioannou Centre for Classical and Byzantine Studies, 66 St Giles, Oxford, OX1 3LU The Faculty of Classics seeks to appoint a Research Associate in Herculaneum Papyrology to join the Humanities and AI Virtual Institute–funded project ‘Meeting the Vesuvius Challenge’, a collaboration between the Faculty of Classics and the Vesuvius Challenge. The postholder will conduct advanced papyrological research on texts extracted from the Herculaneum scrolls and contribute to the refinement of innovative AI-assisted text extraction techniques. The role combines high-level scholarship, graduate teaching, and collaborative research within an internationally significant interdisciplinary initiative. This is a full-time, fixed-term post (24 months) from October 2026 to September 2028, based in the Faculty of Classics, University of Oxford. The post is Grade 7: £39,424 – £47,779 per annum. About the role Reporting to the Head of Administration and Finance and working within the project team led by Professor Tobias Reinhardt, the postholder will undertake independent research on texts extracted from the Herculaneum scrolls, managing their own academic and administrative activities to meet project objectives. They will adapt and develop research methodologies, analyse qualitative and quantitative data, and contribute to refining AI-assisted text extraction techniques in collaboration with project partners. The role includes training and supporting Master’s and doctoral students in papyrology and Herculaneum papyrology. The postholder will deliver up to eight hours of graduate teaching per academic year and supervise students on the M.St. in Greek and/or Latin Languages & Literature. The successful candidate will contribute to research publications and book chapters, develop proposals for new research and funding opportunities, and present findings at conferences and seminars. They will collaborate with colleagues across partner institutions, represent the research group externally, and act as a point of contact for academic visitors and stakeholders, contributing to the wider academic activities of the Faculty. What we offer Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family-friendly and financial benefits, including: • An excellent contributory pension scheme • 38 days’ annual leave • A comprehensive range of childcare services • Family leave schemes • Cycle loan scheme • Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs • Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans Application process