Assistant Professor in Anthropological Archaeology

About Position/Job

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology at James Madison University (JMU) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor in Anthropology specialising in anthropological archaeology. The appointment will begin in August 2026. The position emphasises engaged teaching, undergraduate research mentorship, and professional development opportunities for students. The successful candidate will complement the department’s four-field approach and strengthen its commitment to hands-on learning through lab-based instruction and field experiences. With preferred expertise in archaeology or historical archaeology of the eastern United States, this role offers a chance to contribute to JMU’s nationally recognised liberal arts environment, located in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. The position supports JMU’s mission of fostering inclusive, transformative education while advancing innovative research and public engagement.

Position/Job Details

Position: Tenure Track Assistant Professor in Anthropology
Institution: James Madison University (JMU)
Department: Sociology and Anthropology
College/Division: College of Arts and Letters
Research field: Anthropology / Archaeology
Location: Harrisonburg, Virginia, USA
Number of posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Tenure-track
Start Date (Anticipated): August 2026
Working Hours: Full-time (Exempt)
Salary Range: Commensurate with experience
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Anthropological archaeology
Historical archaeology (preferred focus on eastern United States)
Public engagement in archaeology
Hands-on lab instruction
Undergraduate field experiences

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Ph.D. in Anthropology (by time of appointment preferred)
Potential to teach effectively in both small and large classroom settings
Evidence of an active or developing research programme

Preferred Qualifications:

Specialisation in archaeology or historical archaeology of the eastern United States
Experience with laboratory teaching and student-led research projects
Demonstrated commitment to engaging multiple stakeholders in heritage and archaeological work

Key Responsibilities

Teach introductory and upper-level archaeology courses
Develop regional and topical courses aligned with expertise
Provide on-campus lab instruction and accessible fieldwork opportunities
Supervise and mentor undergraduate research projects
Maintain an active scholarly research programme
Engage in departmental, college, and university service

Application Process

How to Apply:

Applications must be submitted via the James Madison University (JMU) jobs portal.

Required Documents:

Faculty application form
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Cover Letter (detailing research plans, teaching philosophy, and teaching experience)
Sample of scholarly writing (up to 35 pages)