Cultural Anthropology Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving global landscape, the need for cultural anthropology professors has never been more critical.

As societies become more interconnected, the demand for insightful minds who can understand, interpret, and educate about diverse cultures grows ever more urgent.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cultural anthropology professor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager constructing the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of cultural anthropology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Cultural Anthropology Professor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or academic career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Cultural Anthropology Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Cultural Anthropology Professors are academics and researchers who specialize in the study of human cultures.

They delve into the different customs, practices, and social behaviors of people across various cultures and societies.

They are responsible for educating students, conducting research, and contributing to the advancement of the field.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Preparing and delivering lectures on cultural anthropology topics to undergraduate and graduate students
• Developing and implementing curriculum, course materials, and syllabi that meet academic standards
• Conducting research in the field of cultural anthropology and publishing findings in academic journals
• Supervising students’ research projects and theses
• Assessing students’ performance through exams, assignments, and presentations
• Participating in university committees and contributing to the academic community
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest research, theories, and techniques in cultural anthropology
• Applying for and managing research grants
• Advising students on their academic and career paths
• Engaging in public outreach and education about cultural anthropology

 

Cultural Anthropology Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly-skilled and passionate Cultural Anthropology Professor to join our academic team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in cultural anthropology, mentoring students, developing curriculum, and conducting original research in the field of cultural anthropology.

Professors in this role will be expected to maintain an active research agenda, publish scholarly work, and participate in academic service such as committees and advising.

 

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in cultural anthropology
• Develop innovative and engaging curriculum
• Conduct original research in cultural anthropology
• Publish scholarly articles in respected journals
• Mentor and advise students
• Participate in departmental and university service
• Collaborate with colleagues on research and teaching initiatives
• Stay current with developments in the field

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Cultural Anthropology or related field
• Proven experience as a professor or lecturer in cultural anthropology
• A record of scholarly publications
• Excellent teaching and mentorship skills
• Experience with curriculum development and assessment
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cultural Anthropology Professor
• Work Environment: University campus setting, with the option for online teaching. Some travel may be required for academic conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair of Anthropology.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and academic considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our university. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of three professional references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cultural Anthropology Professor Do?

A Cultural Anthropology Professor typically works in an academic institution such as a university or college, providing education in the field of cultural anthropology to undergraduate and postgraduate students.

They conduct lectures, seminars, and workshops to impart knowledge on various topics within cultural anthropology, which may include kinship, religion, politics, economics, and more, based on their areas of specialization.

They develop course syllabi, assign readings, administer tests, and guide student research.

In addition to teaching, these professors also conduct their own research in the field of cultural anthropology.

They collect and analyze data, conduct fieldwork, publish their findings in academic journals, and present their research at conferences.

Cultural Anthropology Professors also often serve as academic advisors to students, helping them to choose courses, plan their academic path, and provide guidance for their thesis or dissertation.

They may also participate in various administrative and committee tasks within their academic institution.

Further, they often contribute to the broader academic community by reviewing journal articles, participating in scholarly organizations, and attending conferences.

In some cases, Cultural Anthropology Professors may apply their expertise outside of academia, consulting on cultural issues in areas such as healthcare, law, business, and government.

 

Cultural Anthropology Professor Qualifications and Skills

A Cultural Anthropology Professor should possess a unique blend of academic expertise, pedagogical abilities, and interpersonal skills, including:

• A PhD in Anthropology, or a related field, with a focus on cultural anthropology, reflecting their academic knowledge and research capabilities.
• Excellent communication skills for lecturing to large groups, guiding classroom discussions, and explaining complex concepts in a clear, concise manner.
• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills to conduct original research, interpret data, and contribute to the scholarly understanding of cultural anthropology.
• Ability to create, plan, and teach courses related to cultural anthropology, demonstrating their pedagogical skills and knowledge of curriculum development.
• Strong writing skills for publishing research papers, articles, or books in the field of cultural anthropology.
• Experience in securing research grants or other funding to support scholarly work in cultural anthropology.
• Interpersonal skills to engage with students, faculty, and professionals, fostering a positive learning environment and facilitating collaborative research projects.
• Mentorship abilities to guide and advise students on their academic journey, career planning, and personal development.

 

Cultural Anthropology Professor Experience Requirements

To become a Cultural Anthropology Professor, candidates typically need extensive experience in both academic and fieldwork settings.

Most professors start their journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology or a related field, then proceed to a Master’s degree, and finally earn a Ph.D. in Cultural Anthropology.

During these stages, they usually conduct original research in their area of interest, which adds to their experience and expertise in the field.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of teaching experience, often gained through teaching assistantships during their Master’s or Ph.D. programs.

They may also have experience in conducting and presenting research, writing scholarly articles, and participating in professional organizations, which are all vital for a career in academia.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have a record of published research and some university-level teaching experience.

They may have also supervised student research projects, participated in departmental service, and contributed to the academic community through conference participation and committee work.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may be poised for tenured positions or leadership roles within their department.

They usually have a substantial publication record, strong teaching evaluations, and a history of contributing to their institution and the wider academic community.

In addition, Cultural Anthropology Professors often have experience in grant writing and project management, as they often lead research projects funded by external grants.

Fieldwork experience in a specific region or community is also commonly expected, as this informs their teaching and research.

 

Cultural Anthropology Professor Education and Training Requirements

Cultural Anthropology Professors generally need a doctoral degree (PhD) in Anthropology or a related field.

Students aiming to become Cultural Anthropology Professors typically start their education with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology, social sciences, or a related discipline, followed by a master’s degree in anthropology.

The PhD program, which is the most significant part of their education, involves extensive research leading to a dissertation.

The dissertation typically involves original research in a specific area of cultural anthropology.

In addition to formal education, future Cultural Anthropology Professors often gain experience through teaching assistantships during their graduate programs.

This experience is valuable as it provides opportunities to lead classes and gain first-hand teaching experience.

Furthermore, post-doctoral research experience can provide a competitive edge in the job market and is often considered essential for positions in prestigious institutions.

In addition, many universities require Cultural Anthropology Professors to continue their education and training throughout their careers to stay up-to-date with new research and teaching methods.

Some may also choose to attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to further their knowledge and network with other professionals in the field.

While not always required, professional certification or licensure might be preferred by some institutions.

These certifications can be obtained through professional organizations and typically require continuing education and adherence to a code of ethics.

Lastly, an essential requirement for a Cultural Anthropology Professor is a strong publication record.

This indicates an active role in research, which is a crucial aspect of the profession.

 

Cultural Anthropology Professor Salary Expectations

A Cultural Anthropology Professor earns an average salary of $82,282 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may differ depending on the professor’s level of experience, the prestige of the institution, and the geographical location of the institution.

 

Cultural Anthropology Professor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Cultural Anthropology Professor need?

A Cultural Anthropology Professor should have excellent research skills, including data collection and analysis.

They also need strong communication skills to present complex anthropological theories and concepts in an understandable and engaging way.

Additionally, they should have good interpersonal skills, critical thinking abilities, and a deep understanding of different cultures and societies.

 

Does a Cultural Anthropology Professor need a degree?

Yes, a Cultural Anthropology Professor needs a degree.

The minimum requirement is usually a master’s degree in anthropology or a related field.

However, most universities and colleges prefer candidates with a Ph.D. in anthropology.

These advanced degrees involve intense study of cultural anthropology and extensive fieldwork.

 

What should you look for in a Cultural Anthropology Professor resume?

A Cultural Anthropology Professor resume should include their educational qualifications with a focus on cultural anthropology.

It should also highlight any relevant fieldwork or research they’ve conducted, publications in reputable journals, and previous teaching experience.

Proficiency in multiple languages can also be an asset as it may facilitate cross-cultural understanding.

 

What qualities make a good Cultural Anthropology Professor?

A good Cultural Anthropology Professor should have a strong passion for cultural anthropology and a commitment to ongoing learning and research.

They should have the ability to inspire and engage students, be open-minded towards different cultures, and possess strong analytical skills to interpret cultural data.

Patience, empathy, and good listening skills are also vital for this role.

 

What are the daily duties of a Cultural Anthropology Professor?

Daily duties of a Cultural Anthropology Professor include preparing and delivering lectures, grading assignments and exams, guiding student discussions on cultural anthropology topics, conducting research, and publishing academic papers.

They may also serve on academic committees, advise students, and perform administrative tasks like updating course syllabi.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Cultural Anthropology Professor?

Hiring a Cultural Anthropology Professor can be challenging as it requires a candidate with a deep understanding of cultural anthropology, significant research and fieldwork experience, and strong teaching skills.

Therefore, the pool of qualified candidates can be limited.

Offering competitive salaries and supportive work environments can help attract and retain these professionals.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on what it truly entails to be a cultural anthropology professor.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about teaching cultural anthropology.

It’s about enlightening minds about various world cultures, one lesson at a time.

With our comprehensive cultural anthropology professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take that leap.

But why end your journey here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your indispensable tool for creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your curriculum vitae to the pinnacle of perfection.

Remember:

Every lesson in cultural anthropology contributes to a broader understanding of humanity.

Let’s expand that understanding. Together.

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