Director of Archaeological Research Division

Director of Archaeological Research Division – Museum of Natural and Cultural History, University of Oregon

Job no: 536599

Work type: Faculty – Career

Salary: $100,000 – $115,000 per year

Location: Eugene, OR

Department: Museum of Natural and Cultural History ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).)

Rank: Research Assistant, Research Associate

Annual Basis: 12 Month

Review of Applications Begins: May 25, 2026; position open until filled

The Director of Archaeological Research leads a transdisciplinary team of archaeologists and historic preservationists conducting survey, excavation, data analysis, and reporting for state and federal agencies and various public entities and private firms. Responsibilities include strategic planning, sponsor development, project proposal development, research design, data analysis, reporting, publication, and oversight of a portfolio of sixty to eighty concurrent contracts. The director also participates in research dissemination through peer‑reviewed journals, conferences, lectures, and public presentations and collaborates with international, national, regional research groups, other UO departments, and museum units.

The director reviews the work of deputy directors, the operations manager, research associates, and research assistants and reports to the Executive Director. This funding‑contingent career research faculty position may be hired at the rank of research assistant Type C, research associate, senior research associate I, or senior research associate II depending on experience and expertise.

• A master’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related field and four years of experience in fieldwork, analysis, and/or research labs (for research assistant Type C).
• A terminal degree in archaeology, anthropology, or related field and four years of experience in fieldwork, analysis, and/or research labs (for research associate).
• Six years of relevant experience post‑terminal degree, with four years of fieldwork, analysis, and/or research lab experience (for senior research associate I).
• Twelve years of relevant experience post‑terminal degree, with four years of fieldwork, analysis, and/or research lab experience (for senior research associate II).
• In‑depth knowledge of archaeology and cultural resource management (CRM) legislation and practice in Oregon, the Pacific Northwest, and Great Basin.
• Ability to conduct archaeological projects in Oregon (permitted by the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office).
• Ability to prioritize and communicate across multiple projects.
• Ability to lead a diverse team with varied expertise.
• Knowledge of CRM policies of state and federal agencies.
• Demonstrated knowledge of GIS information management in ArcGIS.
• Excellent writing skills for proposal development and publication.
• Ability to coordinate 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.
• Experience collaborating with progressive scholars across multiple related fields.

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

Benefits:
The University of Oregon provides 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 any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy.

UO 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/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies.