ISAS Archaeology Specialist – Apply by 31 July 2025

About the Position

The Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS), under the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign, invites applications for a Visiting Scientific Specialist in Archaeological Data Preservation. This position focuses on the long-term management, preservation, and accessibility of archaeological data to support heritage protection and research. The successful candidate will work collaboratively with researchers to develop data workflows, establish standards, and contribute to state and national preservation efforts. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about digital curation, historical records, and the intersection of archaeology and technology.

Position/Job Details

Position: Visiting Scientific Specialist
Institution: University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign
Department: Illinois State Archaeological Survey (ISAS), Prairie Research Institute
Research field: Archaeological Data Management and Digital Preservation
Location: Champaign, Illinois, USA
Number of posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Visiting Academic Professional
Start Date (Anticipated): September 2025
Working Hours: 40 hours per week
Salary Range: $42,000–$50,000 USD (based on experience)
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s

Research Area

Archaeology
Digital Humanities
Data Preservation
Metadata Standards
Heritage Science

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, library science, or a related field
Demonstrated experience with data curation, digital documentation, or archival systems
Strong written communication and organisational skills
Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications:

Familiarity with FileMaker or related database software
Knowledge of digital preservation best practices and standards
Experience with Illinois archaeology or cultural heritage management

Key Responsibilities

Design and manage digital workflows for archaeological data
Create and maintain metadata, documentation, and archiving protocols
Coordinate with internal staff and external partners on preservation initiatives
Support interdisciplinary research by ensuring data consistency and accessibility
Produce manuals and training materials for long-term data use and access