Postdoctoral Research Fellow

at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, United States

Job Description

Job Opening Id: 53886

Department: WCAS History
Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Material History Lab at Northwestern University

The Material History Lab in the Department of History at Northwestern University in Evanston (IL) is accepting applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in digital history with an emphasis on African material culture. This position combines scholarly work in the archaeology and history of Africa since 400 BCE with development and stewardship of an object-centered digital history project. Applications are particularly encouraged from recent PhDs interested in object-centered approaches to historical inquiry and digital storytelling. The successful candidate will work with Dr. Akin Ogundiran and his collaborators to build on the existing Material History Lab’s digital architecture, generate and curate 3D images of objects, write original content, maintain the lab’s research database, liaise with the public, and develop online exhibitions. The postdoc fellow will also serve as lab manager and supervise three to four highly motivated undergraduate students. This is a full-time position. 30% of working hours per week may be devoted to the fellow's own scholarly projects. 

A PhD in African history or related fields, including archaeology, anthropology, art history, Black Studies, and African Cultural Studies, is required. Skill in any branch of digital humanities, including Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality, is a plus. 

The successful applicant is expected to actively participate in the Department of History events, including those organized by the Chabraja Center for Historical Studies. 

Applications are due by Monday, July 6, 2026. 

1. Letter of Application

2. A short research statement (1-2 pages), showing prior experience and fitness for the position. 

3. Current curriculum vitae

4. One article or chapter-length writing sample, or portfolio of an ongoing or completed digital project.

5. In addition, please have two recommenders submit letters by the deadline.

For more information about the NU Department of History and the Material History Lab, visit https://history.northwestern.edu/. Inquiries may be directed to Dr. Akin Ogundiran at ogundiran@northwestern.edu.

Salary Range