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- Tasks: Lead exciting archaeological projects and inspire students through teaching and research.
- 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 the next generation of scholars.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in Archaeology or related fields, with strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a mentor to support 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. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the department and its projects thoroughly. We want you to showcase your knowledge of British archaeology and your project management skills. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their teaching and research.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. We can help you refine your answers and boost your confidence, so you’re ready to impress when it counts.
✨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’re always looking for passionate individuals like you to join our team!
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.
Showcase Your Projects: Don’t forget to mention any projects you've managed or delivered, especially those that have gone to publication. We love seeing concrete examples of your work and how you’ve contributed to the field!
Highlight Teaching Experience: If you’ve organised or delivered teaching at any level, make it a focal point in your application. We’re keen on candidates who can engage students and contribute to our diverse range of programmes.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
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 of Director of QUEST.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Experience
Prepare to talk about your experience in organising and delivering undergraduate or postgraduate teaching. Think of specific examples where you made a positive impact on students' learning and how you can bring that to the Department of Archaeology.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a potential team leader, be ready to share your experiences in managing teams and supervising projects. Highlight your managerial and pastoral skills, and how you’ve successfully led diverse groups in both academic and commercial settings.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Don’t forget that interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the department, the QUEST projects, and the university's commitment to diversity and inclusion. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
