Director of the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology and Professor of Material Culture

About the role

The Board of Electors invites applications for the Directorship of the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology and the Professorship of Material Culture. The successful candidate will hold both offices, based in Cambridge, and will take up appointment on 1 October 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter. The role combines standard professorial duties (teaching, research, examination, supervision and administration) with strategic leadership, fundraising and management of the museum and its collections.

Key responsibilities

• Work with museum curators, all staff and stakeholders to develop the vision for the museum and its collections
• Demonstrate a strong academic and research background in archaeology or social anthropology, with a commitment to multidisciplinary research
• Recognise the museum's role in world-class research, undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and productive relations with originating communities, public engagement and outreach
• Ensure continued philanthropic activity and fundraising to support and expand the museum's activities
• Contribute to the museum's research, teaching and curatorial activities
• Represent the museum and promote its interests within the University and wider communities and agencies

Required profile

• A PhD or equivalent postgraduate qualification in archaeology, anthropology or a related discipline
• An outstanding research record of international stature in material culture
• Vision, leadership, experience and enthusiasm to maintain and develop a leading research presence and run the museum

Applications, including a letter of application, research statement, CV, publications list and three referees, are submitted online by 17 December 2026. A competitive salary is offered.