Dr Sarah Schrader appointed Head of Department Archaeological Sciences
The Faculty of Archaeology is pleased to announce that Dr Sarah Schrader has been appointed as the new Head of the Department of Archaeological Sciences (DV). In April 2026 she succeeds Dr Jason Laffoon, who has led the department for the past six years.
Great enthusiasm
Schrader steps into the role with great enthusiasm. ‘I’m looking forward to it! I’m excited about it,’ she says. ‘It’s a challenge, but also rewarding, a good thing.’
One of Schrader’s first priorities is to enhance the sense of cohesion within the department and to strengthen collaboration across the faculty. ‘I’d like to work on the group’s cohesion, and on collaboration with the other departments.’ She sees this as an important step in the ongoing culture change process. Not only does she hope colleagues will get to know each other better, she also wants to create more awareness of each other’s research and teaching.
‘By chance interactions, I realise that people do similar things. We should work together. Better infrastructure would make those interactions more regular, it would make for a more gezellige Faculty.’
Faculty-wide initiatives
Schrader is also eager to continue developing initiatives that bring the Faculty together, such as the Faculty Lecture series. ‘I really like those. We need to make these events fun, make people want to come.’ She looks forward to discussing new opportunities with the incoming DV for World Archaeology and with Monique van den Dries from Heritage.
A dynamic start
As an introduction to the role, Schrader attended her first Departmental Board Meeting and Faculty Board meetings. ‘It was a lot, and intense, but I really enjoyed seeing how decisions are made and how this works.’ She also expresses her appreciation for the smooth transition. ‘I really appreciate Jason’s help showing me how everything is running.’
Openness and respect
Schrader describes her leadership style as approachable and grounded in mutual respect. ‘I would like to foster an environment of openness and respect. I’d like to be the type of person people feel comfortable popping into my office.’ She notes that this atmosphere already exists within Archaeological Sciences, and she hopes to maintain and strengthen it.
A word of thanks
Schrader extends her sincere gratitude to her predecessor. ‘Genuine thanks to Jason and his term, six years as DV. He really improved our department and made it a better place. I think the department as a whole is thankful for this.’