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- Tasks: Lead exciting archaeological projects and inspire the next generation of students.
- Company: Join a renowned university with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive workplace, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in archaeology while shaping future scholars.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in Archaeology or related fields required.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a mentor for your growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Full time permanent Contract
Closing Date: 23:59 on 5 November 2025
Interview Date: 25 November 2025
By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.
We are seeking to appoint a full-time (1.0 FTE) Director of QUEST and Lecturer in Archaeology, Teaching and Research based in the Department of Archaeology.
You will manage and deliver projects delivered by QUEST and contribute to teaching and other elements of research as required. You will also manage the staff employed by QUEST.
You will have:
- Detailed knowledge and skills in the commercial archaeological sector, delivering projects, experience of project management and supervising teams in multi-period archaeological approaches and post-excavation, in either commercial or University-led contexts.
- Experience of bringing projects to publication.
- A broad knowledge of British archaeology and the heritage sector, including familiarity with the professional context of archaeological practice, and with the employment sector in UK archaeology.
- Experience of organising and delivering undergraduate and/or postgraduate teaching.
- A PhD, or equivalent professional experience, in Archaeology, Geography or Environmental Science or a closely related subject.
- Good team leadership, managerial and pastoral skills.
You will be expected to have or be willing to work towards Fellow status with the Higher Education Academy.
This post is ideally intended to begin as soon as possible, or by negotiation.
The Department of Archaeology is part of the School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science (SAGES). The School and the Department have an established reputation for delivering a diverse range of student-centred degree programmes at the cutting edge of disciplinary knowledge.
You will report to the Head of School for SAGES and also receive guidance from a range of other staff in the School. You will be assigned a mentor who will provide support and guidance during the initial period of your appointment.
Further information on the School ) and QUEST ) may be found at our web-sites. The University aspires to be an \”Employer of Choice\” and the School is an inclusive and supportive workplace. Full details of support available can be found on the University\’s Health and Wellbeing webpages
Contact details for advert
Contact Name: Dr Stuart Black
Contact Job Title: Head of School
Contact Email address:
Alternative Contact Name: Professor Duncan Garrow
Alternative Contact Job Title: Head of Department of Archaeology
Alternative Contact Email address:
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Director of QUEST and Lecturer in Archaeology employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of QUEST and Lecturer in Archaeology
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the archaeology field, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the department and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their recent publications and teaching methods. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience in project management and team leadership clearly. Highlight specific examples of how you've successfully delivered projects in the commercial archaeological sector.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of QUEST and Lecturer in Archaeology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in the commercial archaeological sector. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Director of QUEST and Lecturer in Archaeology, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Projects: When detailing your experience, focus on specific projects you've managed or contributed to. We love seeing how you’ve brought projects to publication and your approach to multi-period archaeological methods. This is your chance to shine!
Highlight Teaching Experience: Since teaching is a big part of this role, make sure to mention any undergraduate or postgraduate teaching you've done. We’re keen to know about your teaching style and how you engage students in archaeology.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of British archaeology and the commercial archaeological sector. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've managed or contributed to, and how they relate to the role. This will show that you're not just familiar with the field but also passionate about it.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Experience
Since this role involves teaching, be prepared to share examples of your teaching methods and experiences. Think about how you engage students and make learning enjoyable. If you have any innovative approaches or successful outcomes from your teaching, highlight those!
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll need strong leadership abilities. Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams and projects. Share specific instances where you led a team through challenges or achieved significant results, showcasing your managerial and pastoral skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Department of Archaeology, QUEST, and the university's vision for the future. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
