The ERC-funded project Material Authority (MMA) invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher (call number 2025DILIFRUA139) to join the research team under the supervision of Dr. Joshua Batts (PI). The position is for a full-time, three-year contract (non-renewable). The start date is flexible but is anticipated for Summer 2026. The position is intended for applicants holding a PhD in Japanese History granted within the past three years. Applications are due 21 January, 2026.

The successful candidate will implement an individual line of inquiry within the project’s three themes (Authority, Management, and Exchange) and will be expected to organize one of the project's core collaborative activities: a regular palaeography seminar for team members, a research seminar open to a wider network of interested and affiliated scholars, and an international conference. Candidates should consider how they would implement and/or innovate upon the structure and format of one or more of these activities. The postdoctoral fellow will also work with the PI to coordinate and run annual weeklong reading workshops for project members and affiliated researchers. Demonstrable prior experience conducting research on medieval or early modern Japan is essential, and the candidate should have a strong command of manuscript sources written in premodern Japanese. Direct experience in mining history is welcome but is not a pre-requisite to applying. The project welcomes scholars who are eager to examine issues of power, authority, resource management, and economic transformation through the lens of Japan’s mines and extractive industries. Candidates should be open to developing expertise in this area while contributing to the project’s broader thematic goals.

The working languages of the project will be English and, to a lesser extent, Japanese. Knowledge of Spanish or Catalan is not a requirement of the position, although the acquisition of basic competency will aid in the researcher’s ability to participate in locally organized events.

A research brief introducing MMA project themes and research questions in more depth is available for download here. Candidates are strongly advised to consult this document to inform their application.

Further particulars of the position and application process available for download here.

Required Documents: Application Stage (Due 21 January, 2026)

• CV

• Cover letter

• Contact information for three references

• Research brief (400-500 words)

Required Documents: Interview Stage (first half of February)

• Writing sample

• Research proposal (1200-1500 words)

Note: The selection committee reserves the right to leave the position unfilled if no suitable candidate is identified.

Contact Information

To apply, submit your application via: seleccio.uab.cat (call number 2025DILIFRUA139). Note that applicants will need to register for an account to apply.

Questions regarding the application process should be directed to Project Manager Rosa Puga Aranda ([email protected]). Questions regarding the position should be directed to the PI at [email protected].