Assistant Professor of Archaeology – ECU USA

About the Position

East Carolina University (ECU) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Archaeology in the Department of Anthropology, starting August 2026. This position focuses on the archaeology of the Southeastern United States, with a strong emphasis on coastal regions, including prehistoric, contact-period, and historic populations. As a Carnegie R1 institution, ECU offers an intellectually vibrant environment that values research excellence, student success, public engagement, and applied anthropology.
The successful candidate will develop an externally funded research programme, contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching, and provide leadership within the Phelps Archaeology Laboratory, including NAGPRA compliance. The role aligns closely with ECU’s strengths in coastal and environmental studies, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community engagement in eastern North Carolina.

Position Details

Position: Assistant Professor
Institution: East Carolina University
Department: Anthropology
Research Field: Archaeology
Location: Greenville, United States
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Tenure-track
Start Date (Anticipated): August 2026
Working Hours: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 9-month appointment)
Salary Range: Commensurate with qualifications
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Southeastern United States archaeology
Coastal and maritime archaeology
Prehistoric, contact, and historic period studies
Cultural Resource Management (CRM)
Community-engaged and applied archaeology

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in Anthropology, Archaeology, or a closely related field (ABD considered, PhD required before reappointment)
Demonstrated expertise in Southeastern U.S. archaeology
Evidence of effective teaching, mentoring, and research

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong potential for external research funding
Experience directing archaeological field projects
Record of CRM-funded research or contracts
Experience working with Indigenous communities and NAGPRA compliance
Interest in leading student field schools

Key Responsibilities

Teach undergraduate and graduate archaeology courses
Develop and sustain an active, funded research programme
Provide leadership in the Phelps Archaeology Laboratory
Oversee collections and ensure NAGPRA compliance
Contribute to BA, MA, CRM Certificate, and PhD in Integrated Coastal Studies programmes