Job description
The Department of Anthropology at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago invites applications for a full-time tenure-track position in Archaeology at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin August 1, 2026. Expertise is open, but we are especially interested in candidates engaged in active prehistoric or historic archaeological field research in North America/Chicagoland.
We seek a dynamic scholar-teacher to re-invigorate and grow the archaeology component of our program and curriculum, including by providing students with out-of-the-classroom learning, research, and field opportunities and preparing students for archaeological and related careers. To this end, we envision a candidate who, in addition to their regular duties, can spearhead one or more of the following initiatives: establish an area field school and lab, develop a museum studies certificate, and/or collaborate with other NEIU programs to develop interdisciplinary courses and internships. We are especially interested in candidates who can help forge or strengthen connections with other programs such as geography, earth science, urban studies, museum studies (under development), environmental studies/science, and art history. As we work toward reenvisioning NEIU archaeology, we welcome additional ideas and creative combinations that candidates might bring.
The ideal candidate will have an active research agenda that can also include student researchers as well as undergraduate teaching experience, especially with diverse populations. The teaching load for the position is a 3/3 assignment of both introductory and upper division courses that includes new courses developed by the candidate. The new hire will be required to teach in-person, on campus and they may be asked to teach at either of our two other metro Chicago campuses or at the suburban Lake County consortium campus. The new hire will be joining a small but active and healthy 3-field anthropology program that operates independently within a larger combined Department. Additional summer teaching opportunities are possible.
Minimal Qualifications: A Ph.D. by time of appointment is required.
This position requires a background check.
Salary Range: $65,000 – $68,000.
How to apply
Please submit the following application materials to the link below: cover letter, C.V., unofficial transcript, two recent publications or other evidence of syllabi scholarship, and relevant teaching materials, and names and contact information for three referees (letters are not requested at this time). Submit Application Materials. Questions about this search should be addressed to Dr. Lesa Davis, Search Committee Chair: LCDAVIS@neiu.
Benefits:
University employees may be eligible for a variety of State of Illinois benefits. These benefits are administered through the Illinois Department of Central Management Service (CMS). Please visit our Employee Benefits page to learn more about our comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision benefits, sick and vacation days, and participation in the State Universities Retirement System.
Transcripts:
Copies of unofficial transcripts are accepted; however, official transcripts for all earned degrees will be required of candidates selected for final interviews.
Northeastern Illinois University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and invites applications from Women, Minorities, Veterans and Persons with Disabilities, as well as other qualified individuals. Northeastern Illinois University’s positions are contingent upon the University’s receipt of its State of Illinois appropriation.
