The University of Oxford is inviting applications for a Departmental Lecturer in Assyriology in its Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (AMES) in Oxford, UK. The position is full-time for 12 months, starting on 1 April 2027, with an annual salary of £39,424–£47,779. The successful candidate will teach and conduct research in Assyriology, with a strong focus on Akkadian and Sumerian. Applicants should hold a doctorate in Assyriology or be close to completing one by April 2027.
Position Details
- Position: Departmental Lecturer in Assyriology
- Official Reference Number: 189061
- Institution: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department: Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (AMES)
- Research Discipline(s): Assyriology, Akkadian Studies, Sumerian Studies, Ancient Near Eastern Studies
- Location: Oxford, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Academic / Lecturer
- Contract Duration: 12 months, fixed-term
- Start Date: 1 April 2027
- Working Hours: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
- Application Deadline: 30 October 2026, 12 noon UK time
- Salary: £39,424–£47,779 per year (Grade 7)
- Required Qualification: Doctorate in Assyriology, completed or close to completion by April 2027
About the Position
The successful candidate will join the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies and contribute to its teaching and research in Assyriology. The role involves preparing course materials, teaching students, taking part in examinations, and helping with the administration of relevant degree programmes. Alongside teaching, the lecturer will be expected to pursue high-quality research and develop a publication profile appropriate to their career stage.
Candidates should have a strong knowledge of Akkadian and Sumerian, along with good communication, organisational, and teamwork skills. Experience with innovative teaching methods and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion would be an added advantage.
Research Areas
- Assyriology
- Akkadian language and studies
- Sumerian language and studies
- Ancient Near Eastern studies
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Hold, or be close to completing, a doctorate in Assyriology by April 2027.
- Demonstrate broad and in-depth knowledge of Akkadian and Sumerian suitable for teaching, course development, and research.
- Have a developing publication profile appropriate to their career stage.
- Show a commitment to high-quality research.
- Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrate strong organisational abilities and a collaborative approach to academic life.
- Have good digital literacy.
Experience with innovative teaching methods and a commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion would be advantageous.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Teach Assyriology at university level.
- Develop and prepare relevant course materials.
- Conduct research in the field.
- Contribute to examinations for relevant degree courses.
- Support the administration of academic programmes.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues within the faculty.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: Friday, 30 October 2026, at 12 noon UK time
- Expected Interviews: Late November 2026
- Appointment Start Date: 1 April 2027
Application Process
Candidates must apply through the University of Oxford’s online recruitment system. Before submitting an application, they should review the official job description and selection criteria.
The supporting statement should explain how the candidate meets each relevant criterion and include specific examples from their experience.
Required Documents
Prepare the following documents for submission:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include relevant academic qualifications, research experience, publications, and teaching experience.
- Supporting Statement: Explain how you meet the selection criteria and support your claims with examples from your experience.
- Referee Details: Provide contact information for two or three referees.
Submit your application through the university’s official recruitment portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Departmental Lecturer in Assyriology do?
The lecturer teaches and researches Assyriology, prepares course materials, contributes to examinations, and supports the administration of relevant degree courses.
Which languages are central to the role?
Akkadian and Sumerian form the core subject expertise required for teaching, course development, and research.
Does the university value innovative teaching experience?
Yes. Experience with innovative teaching methods is an advantage, alongside the ability to teach and develop academic materials.
How many referees should applicants nominate?
Applicants must provide details of two or three referees as part of their application.
How can applicants obtain further information about the position?
Contact the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies Human Resources team at hr@ames.ox.ac.uk and quote vacancy reference 189061.
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