The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is inviting applications for an Assistant Research Scientist in Lithic Archaeology. This full-time position is based in Urbana, Illinois, within the Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS), and focuses on the study of precontact lithic assemblages.
ISAS is part of the Prairie Research Institute (PRI), a University of Illinois research and service institute that brings together five State Scientific Surveys covering archaeology, biology, water resources, climate and geology. The University of Illinois has studied Illinois’ archaeological heritage for 80 years, while ISAS works to protect, preserve and interpret the state’s archaeological resources.
The role involves studying stone and mineral materials from archaeological sites, including sample collection, identification, interpretation and preparation for curation. The successful candidate will also carry out analyses of lithic assemblages from ISAS excavation projects, oversee staff and contribute to grant applications, publications and conference presentations.
Other duties include using pXRF and PIMA techniques, preparing and editing archaeological reports, coordinating projects, providing technical advice and managing the ISAS lithic raw material collection. Candidates should have relevant professional experience, good organisational and communication skills, and the ability to use lithic data to explore anthropological questions.
Position Details
- Position: Assistant Research Scientist, Lithic Archaeology
- Reference: 1037961
- Institution: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA
- Department: Illinois State Archaeological Survey, Prairie Research Institute
- Field: Lithic Archaeology / Archaeology / Anthropology
- Location: Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Job Type: Researcher / Academic Professional
- Appointment: 100% full-time Academic Professional
- Salary: US$65,000–US$80,000 per year
Research Areas
The position covers several connected areas of archaeological research, lithic analysis and cultural resource management:
- Precontact lithic assemblage analysis
- Lithic raw material identification and analysis
- Quantitative lithic analysis
- Lithic interpretation and reporting
- pXRF and PIMA applications
- Cultural resource management
- Compliance archaeology
- Archaeological data analysis and reporting
Eligibility/Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- A Master’s degree in anthropology, archaeology or a closely related discipline.
- At least three years of professional experience analysing precontact lithic assemblages from the U.S. Midwest.
- Experience covering identification, analysis, interpretation and reporting of lithic assemblages.
- Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state laws governing archaeological cultural resources.
- Demonstrated ability to write and edit compliance archaeology reports.
- Familiarity with precontact and post-contact history and material culture in the continental United States.
- Compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualification Standards for archaeology under 36 CFR Part 61.
- A valid driving licence.
A PhD in anthropology, archaeology or a closely related discipline is preferred. Additional preferred experience includes quantitative methods, GIS, graphics software, archaeological databases, transportation archaeology and supervisory work.
Key Responsibilities
The main responsibilities of the Assistant Research Scientist include:
- Developing and conducting analyses of precontact lithic assemblages from ISAS excavation projects.
- Overseeing staff undertaking lithic identification, description, quantitative analysis, interpretation and reporting.
- Contributing to grant applications, professional publications and conference presentations.
- Applying pXRF and PIMA to lithic analysis where appropriate.
- Authoring and editing archaeological reports and lithic analysis guidelines.
- Coordinating multiple projects and managing the ISAS lithic raw material collection.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a budgeted salary of US$65,000–US$80,000 per year, with the final salary determined by the candidate’s qualifications, experience and internal equity. This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional appointment.
The appointment is expected to include a comprehensive benefits package, covering health, dental, vision and life insurance, as well as a retirement plan and paid time off. Eligible employees and their dependants may also receive tuition waivers.
Application Process
Eligible candidates must submit their applications through the University of Illinois employment system. Applications must be received by the stated deadline, and incomplete applications will not be considered.
Required documents:
- Cover letter explaining relevant qualifications and experience.
- CV or résumé.
- Names and contact information, including email addresses, for three professional references.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 23 September 2026, 6:00 pm Central Time
- Expected Start Date: Not specified in the source
Submit applications through the University of Illinois employment system. Applications submitted elsewhere will not be considered.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeology research positions
- Lithic archaeology jobs
- USA research opportunities
- Academic research jobs
- Palaeolithic archaeology positions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for this position?
The salary is US$65,000–US$80,000 per year.
What qualifications are required?
Applicants need a Master’s degree in anthropology, archaeology or a closely related discipline, plus at least three years of relevant professional experience.
What does the role involve?
The role focuses on precontact lithic analysis, including the study, interpretation, reporting and curation of archaeological materials.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm Central Time on 23 September 2026.
Is work sponsorship available?
No. The position is not eligible for any type of work authorisation sponsorship.
Institutional Overview
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a leading public research university in the United States, recognised for its strong contribution to teaching, research and innovation. Located in Urbana and Champaign, Illinois, the university brings together researchers across archaeology, anthropology, science, engineering and the humanities. Its research environment supports interdisciplinary work, advanced laboratory methods and field-based investigation of the past. Through the Illinois State Archaeological Survey, the university contributes to archaeological research and the study of cultural heritage across Illinois. Researchers have access to extensive collections, specialist facilities and collaborative networks that support archaeological analysis and professional development. The university also offers students, researchers, and academic staff opportunities to contribute to projects addressing important questions about human history, material culture, landscapes, and long-term cultural change.
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