Research Associate (Limited Term)

Date Posted: 07/08/2025
Req ID: 44110
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Arts & Science
Department: Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

 

Description:

 

The Department of Near and Middle Easter Civilizations at the University of Toronto invites applications for a 75% part time equivalent Research Associate (Limited Term) for a one-year appointment. The anticipated start date is September 1, 2025.


The Research Associate independently carries out research projects connected with current scientific excavations of Nineveh in the city of Mosul Iraq. Research projects involve the stabilization, restoration, and protection of major monumental edifices in East Nineveh (the capital of the Neo Assyrian empire) and scientific excavations in order to build a more comprehensive historical picture. The research is done in collaboration with the University of Chicago which holds the permit for east Nineveh; and encompasses an area of over 300 ha., primarily constructed during the reign of king Sennacherib 705-681 BC. This site has been neglected for the past 40 years due to the political situation in the region. In tandem with conducting research, the Associate will apply their field experience to oversee logistical components of the field operations.


The incumbent of this role will be expected to both and travel and stay in Mosul Iraq for two months of each year, or as needed, to align with research project needs.


The Research Associate Term will be responsible for:

 

    • Design, plan, and execute research projects, draft scientific papers.

    • Write and prepare article publications and conference presentations on research findings.

    • Conduct and publish research papers pertaining to archaeological work in Mesopotamia.

    • Write and submit reports, in both English and Arabic, on the status of excavations to government agencies.

    • Write and prepare conference presentations on research findings from work in Iraq.

    • Orchestrate team publications through coordinating through the work of the various specialists involved in the project.

    • Organize budget in addition to other logistical affairs in Iraq. Oversee field operations and logistics by using their project research knowledge liaising direct excavations on the ground at the site of Nineveh, liaise with government institutes, and partner universities.

    • Ensuring that excavation permits, equipment licenses, and personnel approvals are in place prior to each excavation season, travel logistics, including appropriate visas and housing, ensure that excavation materials are arranged and in alignment with University policies.Train faculty and students in excavation techniques and procedures.

    • Track budgets associated with the dig and report through University.

    • Maintain communication and conduct outreach to internal and external stakeholders.

 

Applicants should apply online at the link below and include a covering letter, curriculum vitae and three reference names with their contact addresses and phone numbers. Any questions regarding this position should be directed to Rebecca Higgins, Department Manager.


Minimum Qualifications:


Education:

    • PhD in Mesopotamian Archaeology

 

Experience:

    • Extensive field experience conducting relevant research and excavations in the Middle East.

    • Scholarly experience and expertise in Mesopotamian archaeology.

    • Understanding of appropriate tools and scientific process for effective excavations and preservation of samples and dig research subjects.

    • Experience working with local government officials for excavation and travel permits.

    • Ability to lead a project and co-ordinate research team

    • Familiarity with Mesopotamian assemblages from prehistory to the Iron Age.

    • Familiarity with cultural heritage practices in the Middle East.

 

Skills:

    • Fluent in Arabic

    • Proficient knowledge in GIS and archaeological survey method

 

Closing Date: 07/16/2025, 11:59PM ET
Employee Group: Research Associate
Appointment Type: Grant - Term
Schedule: Part-Time
Pay Scale Group & Hiring Zone: R01 -- Research Associates (Limited Term): $53,520 - $100,530 ($40,140 - $75,262 prorated to reflect 75% FTE)
Job Category: Research Administration & Teaching

Diversity Statement

The University of Toronto embraces Diversity and is building a culture of belonging that increases our capacity to effectively address and serve the interests of our global community. We strongly encourage applications from Indigenous Peoples, Black and racialized persons, women, persons with disabilities, and people of diverse sexual and gender identities. We value applicants who have demonstrated a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and recognize that diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise are essential to strengthening our academic mission.

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Accessibility Statement

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The University is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). As such, we strive to make our recruitment, assessment and selection processes as accessible as possible and provide accommodations as required for applicants with disabilities.

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