Sessional Lecturer - NMC470H1S - Polarized-light Microscopy in Archaeology II: Applications

University of Toronto; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 9,000 - 12,000; Part time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Toronto is seeking a Sessional Lecturer to teach a course on polarized-light microscopy applied to archaeological materials. This role involves preparing course content, delivering lectures, and assessing student performance. Ideal candidates must have a PhD in Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations and relevant teaching experience. The position offers a hybrid class format, combining in-person and online instruction, with a sessional appointment from January 1, 2026 to April 30, 2026.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant field or equivalent knowledge and experience required.
• Evidence of knowledge in subject matter is necessary.
• Access to ROM collections for lab is required.

Responsibilities

• Preparation and delivery of course content.
• Development, administration and marking of assignments, tests, and exams.
• Holding regular office hours.
• Calculation and submission of grades.
• Other teaching related duties and administrative tasks.

Skills

Knowledge of Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations

Teaching experience

Familiarity with polarized-light microscopy

Education

PhD in Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations or related field

Job description

Date Posted: 10/01/2025
Req ID: 43939
Faculty/Division: Faculty of Arts & Science
Department: Dept of Near & Middle East Civilizations
Campus: St. George (Downtown Toronto)

Description:

This course explores further applications of polarized-light microscopy in the examination of archaeological materials, particularly pottery (ceramic petrology). The focus is on foundational research and case-studies of materials from around the world with particular attention to material culture from the Middle East, Central America, and East Asia, where University of Toronto researchers have worked, ranging in date from the Neolithic period to the modern day. Class and lab discussions will include critical examination of the application and integration of ceramic petrology in archaeological research design and how petrology can address relevant research questions successfully. Labs comprise eight three-hour sessions during the term, working with the polarized-light microscope to examine and analyze thin-sections.

Estimated Course Enrolment: 10

Estimated TA Support: N/A

Class Schedule: Tuesdays, 3:00pm – 5:00pm, Thursdays 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Class Format: Hybrid: Tuesdays In Person, Thursdays Online

Sessional Dates of Appointment: January 1, 2026 – April 30, 2026

Salary: (including vacation pay)

Sessional Lecturer Rates:

• Sessional Lecturer I – $9,820.70
• Sessional Lecturer I, Long Term – $10,510.04
• Sessional Lecturer II – $10,510.04
• Sessional Lecturer II, Long Term - $10,760.28
• Sessional Lecturer III – $10,760.28
• Sessional Lecturer III, Long Term - $11,030.36

Minimum Qualifications: PhD in Near and Middle Eastern Civilizations or related field or equivalent knowledge and experience. Evidence of knowledge in subject matter. Access to ROM collections for lab is required.

Description of Duties:

• Preparation and delivery of course content
• Development, administration and marking of assignments, tests and exams
• Holding regular office hours
• Calculation and submission of grades
• Other teaching related duties and administrative tasks associated with an undergraduate course

Application Instructions: Applications should be addressed to the Department Chair and include a Curriculum Vitae; Cover Letter; and the names of two references and their contact information. Applications should be emailed to [e-mail].

Closing Date: 10/15/2025, 11:59PM EDT

This job is posted in accordance with the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 Collective Agreement.

It is understood that some announcements of vacancies are tentative, pending final course determinations and enrolment. Should rates stipulated in the collective agreement vary from rates stated in this posting, the rates stated in the collective agreement shall prevail.

Preference in hiring is given to qualified individuals advanced to the rank of Sessional Lecturer II or Sessional Lecturer III in accordance with Article 14:12 of the CUPE 3902 Unit 3 collective agreement.

Please note: Undergraduate or graduate students and postdoctoral fellows of the University of Toronto are covered by the CUPE 3902 Unit 1 collective agreement rather than the Unit 3 collective agreement, and should not apply for positions posted under the Unit 3 collective agreement.

Candidates who are members of Indigenous, Black, racialized and 2SLGBTQ+ communities, persons with disabilities, and other equity-deserving groups are encouraged to apply, and their lived experience shall be taken into consideration as applicable to the position.