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This is a prime opportunity for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Historical Archaeology at the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), starting July 1, 2026. The Department of Anthropology is seeking a scholar with a strong research agenda in community-engaged archaeology or the modern world to join their dynamic four-field department. If you have a Ph.D. in Anthropology and a passion for mentoring graduate students, this role offers a competitive salary, a 2-2 teaching load, and incredible access to the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The Role and Research Focus
The University of Nevada, Reno is expanding its academic influence, and this position is central to that growth. The department specifically wants someone who can dive deep into the archaeology of the recent past or the modern world. While the geographic specialization is open, there is a clear preference for candidates willing to engage with local communities in Northern Nevada.
You will be expected to teach both undergraduate and graduate courses, contributing to a robust M.A. and Ph.D. program. The university values researchers who can secure external funding and publish in top-tier journals. A critical part of your role will be running archaeological field schools, which is a fantastic way to get students hands-on experience while furthering your own data collection.
Faculty and Student Demographics at UNR
Understanding the landscape you are entering is vital for any academic career. The University of Nevada, Reno is an R1 research institution and an Emerging Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI). The campus culture is shifting rapidly to reflect the changing demographics of the United States.
Currently, the student body at UNR is becoming increasingly diverse. Recent data indicates that the undergraduate population is approximately 49% White, 24% Hispanic or Latino, 8% Asian, and 4% Black or African American. This diversity is a major asset for anthropologists interested in community engagement and heritage studies.
On the faculty side, the university is actively working to mirror this student diversity. While historical trends in anthropology nationwide have skewed heavily white—roughly 83% of the workforce is female and nearly 70% white—UNR is pushing for greater inclusivity. The faculty at UNR is currently about 77% White, 7% Asian, and 3% Black, but the university has committed substantial resources to recruitment and retention of diverse scholars. This position explicitly seeks candidates committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, suggesting a supportive environment for scholars from underrepresented groups.
Life in Reno and Benefits
Moving to Reno means more than just a job; it is a lifestyle change. The city is an emerging tech hub often called “The Biggest Little City in the World,” sitting just 45 minutes from Lake Tahoe. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is paradise, offering world-class skiing, hiking, and water sports right in your backyard.
Financially, the position is attractive. Nevada has no state income tax, which effectively boosts your take-home pay. The university offers a generous retirement plan where your 19.25% contribution is matched by the university, and you are vested immediately. The health benefits are comprehensive, covering dental, vision, and life insurance.
Application Process
The search committee will begin reviewing applications on December 15, 2025. You should be prepared to submit a curriculum vitae, a cover letter detailing your research and teaching philosophy, and contact information for three references. This position will remain open until filled, but applying early is highly recommended given the competitiveness of tenure-track anthropology jobs.
This role is a rare chance to shape the future of historical archaeology in the American West while living in one of the country’s most beautiful regions. If you are ready to lead field schools and mentor the next generation of archaeologists, this is the move for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the teaching load for this position? The teaching load is 2-2, meaning you will teach two courses per semester, allowing ample time for research and fieldwork.
- Is a Ph.D. required at the time of application? A Ph.D. in Anthropology or a closely related field is preferred by July 1, 2026.
- What are the tenure requirements? Tenure expectations generally include a strong record of peer-reviewed publications, successful grant funding, and excellence in teaching and service.
- Does the university offer support for dual-career couples? Yes, UNR has a Faculty Dual Career Assistance Program to help spouses and partners find employment in Northern Nevada.
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