Director of Archaeological Research Division

Department

Museum of Natural and Cultural History

Research Assistant, Research Associate

12 Month

May 25, 2026; position open until filled

Please submit a current CV and cover letter addressing your experience in archaeological research leadership, cultural resource management (CRM) and regulatory expertise, and project and financial management, along with a brief statement of your vision for the division. Submit all materials by the Final date to receive applications.

The University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History (MNCH) enhances knowledge of Earth’s environments and cultures, inspiring stewardship of our collective past, present, and future. The museum serves the State of Oregon, the University of Oregon, Native American Tribes, the research community, K‑12 students and teachers, and the public. The Archaeological Research Division conducts dozens of projects each year and is the State of Oregon’s official repository for publicly owned collections.

The Director of Archaeological Research leads a transdisciplinary team of archaeologists and historic preservationists who conduct survey, excavation, data analysis, and reporting for state and federal agencies and public entities. The director oversees strategic planning, project proposal development, research design, data analysis, reporting, and publication. The division manages 60–80 concurrent contracts, requiring prioritization, sponsor communication and budgetary oversight. The director participates in research dissemination through peer‑reviewed journals, book chapters, conferences, university lectures, and public presentations, collaborating with national and regional research groups and museums.

• Research Assistant Type C
  • A masters degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related field.
  • Four years of experience in fieldwork, analysis, or research laboratories.
• Research Associate
  • A terminal degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related field.
  • Four years of experience in fieldwork, analysis, or research laboratories.
• Senior Research Associate I
  • A terminal degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related field.
  • Six years of relevant experience post‑degree, including four years in fieldwork or research laboratories.
• Senior Research Associate II
  • A terminal degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related field.
  • Twelve years of relevant experience post‑degree, including four years in fieldwork or research laboratories.

• In‑depth knowledge of archaeology and cultural resource management (CRM) legislation and processes in Oregon, the Pacific Northwest, and Great Basin.
• Ability to conduct permitted archaeological projects in Oregon (Oregon State Historic Preservation Office).
• Skill to prioritize and communicate across multiple projects.
• Leadership of diverse teams with varied expertise.
• Knowledge of CRM policies of state and federal agencies.
• Proficiency in GIS information management using ArcGIS.
• Excellent writing skills for proposal development and publication.
• Coordination with the Oregon SHPO, state and federal agencies, and Native American Tribes in Oregon.

• Demonstrated ability to manage a demanding portfolio.
• Experience publishing research results in high‑profile publications.
• Collaborative experience with scholars across related fields.

All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.

The University of Oregon offers a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

The University of Oregon is an equal‑opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. For accommodation requests, please email or call 541‑346‑5112.

The University prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services, veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities, and employment practices as required by Title IX and other applicable laws.

Retaliation is prohibited; questions may be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are available online.