Applications are invited for appointment as Research Assistant Professor in Early Chinese History and Archaeology at the Hong Kong Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (Ref.: 519605), to commence as soon as possible, on a two-year fixed-term basis, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability.

The appointee will join the Quantitative History Cluster led by Professor Zhiwu Chen at the Institute. The Cluster explores the historical roots of China’s development in the prehistoric and historic periods. Drawing on historical archives and statistical tools, quantitative history is a rising interdisciplinary research area that links history to other disciplines such as economics, finance, sociology, political science, archaeology, and earth science.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. degree with research experience in early Chinese history, Chinese archaeology, bioarchaeology, or quantitative history areas. They should demonstrate both the ability to work across disciplines and leadership skills in managing a team to drive forward new research initiatives. They should have a strong track record of high-quality research, plus the ability to reach out to international scholars in related fields and promote quantitative archaeology and early Chinese history research. Research experience in biometrics based on excavated material remains with journal publications would be an advantage.

The appointee will work on the projects of the Quantitative History Cluster.  He/She will be expected to conduct research and prepare research programs, grant proposals, publications and reports, and to organize academic activities. There will be opportunities for participation in teaching programs. Inquiries about the post can be sent to ihsshrfi@hku.hk.

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. The appointment will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of basic salary.

The University only accepts online applications for the above posts. Applicants should apply online and upload (1) an up-to-date CV; (2) a research statement; and (3) at least one article (either a working paper, Ph.D. dissertation, or a published paper).  Please state information of at least two referees on the online application form.  Applicants should invite two referees to send confidential reference letters to ihsshrfi@hku.hk.  At least one of the referees should comment on his/her research/teaching ability and his/her contribution to research/ teaching in his/her department, while the other should have knowledge of his/her recent academic or employment experience. Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until March 30, 2023 or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.