Job Description
About the Role
The University of Reading is seeking to appoint a Director of QUEST and Lecturer in Archaeology (Teaching and Research) to join the Department of Archaeology within the School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science (SAGES).
In this dual role, you will lead the QUEST (Quaternary Scientific) enterprise, managing and delivering projects, overseeing staff, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality outputs. Alongside your leadership responsibilities, you will contribute to the Department’s teaching and research activities, supporting our commitment to excellence in both education and scholarship.
This is a full-time, permanent post offering a unique opportunity to combine academic teaching and research with the management of a leading archaeological and environmental research enterprise.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage QUEST projects, ensuring successful delivery to time, budget, and quality standards.
Supervise QUEST staff, providing effective leadership, mentoring, and project oversight.
Contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in archaeology and related fields.
Engage in research aligned with the Department’s priorities and bring projects through to publication.
Support the development of external partnerships and collaborations in commercial and academic contexts.
Promote the visibility and impact of QUEST and the Department within the wider archaeological and heritage sectors.
About You
You will bring:
Detailed knowledge and practical experience within the commercial archaeological sector, including project delivery, management, and supervision.
Demonstrated success in bringing projects to publication.
A strong understanding of British archaeology and the wider heritage sector, with familiarity with professional practice standards and employment contexts.
Experience in undergraduate and/or postgraduate teaching.
A PhD (or equivalent professional experience) in Archaeology, Geography, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
Proven team leadership, management, and pastoral skills.
You will also be expected to hold or work towards Fellow status with the Higher Education Academy (HEA).
About the Department
The Department of Archaeology is part of the School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science (SAGES), known for its student-focused degree programmes and research at the forefront of disciplinary innovation. The School provides an inclusive, supportive, and collaborative academic environment with a strong commitment to professional development and wellbeing.
You will report to the Head of School (SAGES) and work closely with colleagues across the Department. A mentor will be assigned to support your transition into the role.
For further information, visit:
School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science (SAGES)
QUEST (Quaternary Scientific)
Sponsorship Information
This role may be eligible for visa sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker Route. Applicants must ensure they meet the points-based immigration requirements as outlined by UK Visas and Immigration:
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Reading is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. We proudly support:
The Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality
The Race Equality Charter
LGBT+ equality initiatives
We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) and welcome applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements, which will be considered in line with operational needs.
Join us and contribute to an environment where collaboration, curiosity, and innovation thrive — helping to shape the future of archaeological research and education at one of the UK’s leading universities.
