Professor of Anthropology Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving realm of social sciences, the role of an anthropology professor is of paramount importance.

As society continues to transform, there’s an increasing demand for insightful minds who can explore, analyze, and interpret human cultures, social behaviors, and the evolution of societies.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the crux of this role,
• A hiring committee sculpting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of anthropological studies,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable anthropology professor job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or academic career sites.

Let’s embark on this exploration together.

Professor of Anthropology Duties and Responsibilities

Professors of Anthropology utilize their deep understanding of human behavior, culture, and history to educate students and conduct research.

They are primarily responsible for teaching anthropology courses, but their role also extends to various academic and administrative responsibilities.

Professors of Anthropology are expected to perform the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and teach Anthropology courses for undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts
• Conduct research in their area of expertise and publish findings in scholarly journals
• Guide student research projects and mentor students on their academic journey
• Assess student performance, including grading assignments and exams
• Stay current in their field by reading scholarly articles and attending academic conferences
• Apply for research grants and manage funded projects
• Participate in departmental and college activities such as staff meetings, committee work, and curriculum development
• Provide advice to students on academic and career matters

 

Professor of Anthropology Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Professor of Anthropology to join our faculty.

The successful candidate will be expected to teach a broad range of Anthropology courses, conduct high-quality research, and participate actively in departmental activities and services.

The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of cultural and biological anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics.

A successful track record in research and publication is also essential for this position.

 

Responsibilities

• Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in anthropology and related fields
• Conduct high-quality research in a specialized area of anthropology
• Prepare and deliver lectures to students
• Supervise student research projects and theses
• Publish research findings in academic journals
• Participate in departmental meetings and serve on academic or administrative committees
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge in the field of anthropology
• Provide academic advising to students

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Anthropology or a related field
• Proven experience as a professor or lecturer in anthropology
• Strong understanding of cultural and biological anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics
• Excellent publication record in reputable academic journals
• Ability to teach effectively at the undergraduate and graduate levels
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience with online teaching platforms is a plus

 

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive health benefits, including dental and vision
• Retirement plan
• Generous paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Opportunity for professional development and conference attendance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Professor of Anthropology
• Work Environment: University campus. Some travel may be required for academic conferences and research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Chair of Anthropology.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and university considerations.
• 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 CV, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of publications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Professor of Anthropology Do?

A Professor of Anthropology primarily works in the academic environment of universities and colleges.

They specialize in one or more branches of anthropology such as cultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, biological anthropology, or archaeological anthropology.

Their main task is to educate students about various aspects of human societies and cultures around the world.

This includes planning and delivering lectures, preparing and marking assignments and exams, and guiding student research projects.

They also provide academic counseling to students, helping them to understand the course content and guiding them towards their career goals.

In addition to teaching, Professors of Anthropology conduct their own research in their specialized area of anthropology.

This involves doing fieldwork, collecting and analyzing data, and publishing their findings in academic journals.

They also present their research at conferences and seminars.

Furthermore, they contribute to the development of their department by participating in administrative tasks, curriculum development, and committee work.

They often collaborate with other anthropologists and related professionals for interdisciplinary research projects.

Professors of Anthropology may also offer expert advice to governments, non-governmental organizations, and businesses on issues related to their field of expertise.

 

Professor of Anthropology Qualifications and Skills

An effective Professor of Anthropology should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Advanced knowledge and understanding of anthropology, its subfields, and relevant research methodologies.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills to convey complex anthropological concepts in an engaging and accessible manner to students.
• Strong research skills, and the ability to maintain an ongoing research project, as well as guide students in their own research endeavors.
• Interpersonal skills to foster strong relationships with students, peers, and staff and to work collaboratively within an academic setting.
• Organizational skills to manage classes, prepare lessons, grade assignments, and conduct research concurrently.
• Ability to inspire critical and creative thinking in students, and encourage them to explore various anthropological theories and perspectives.
• Experience in applying for and securing research grants, as well as managing funded research projects.
• Problem-solving skills to address student concerns, academic issues, and devise solutions for the same.
• Proficiency with technology and software relevant to teaching and research in Anthropology.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with latest anthropological research and theories.

 

Professor of Anthropology Experience Requirements

A Professor of Anthropology typically needs extensive experience in both academia and the field of Anthropology.

They usually hold a PhD in Anthropology or a related field, indicating several years of specialized study beyond the undergraduate level.

Prior to becoming a professor, candidates often gain experience through teaching assistantships or adjunct faculty positions during their doctoral studies.

This allows them to acquire practical teaching experience while also conducting their own research.

Fieldwork experience is also critical, as it provides hands-on understanding of cultural, archaeological, biological, or linguistic phenomena.

This may be acquired through research projects, internships, or other professional opportunities.

In addition to teaching and research experience, a Professor of Anthropology is often required to have a proven record of published research.

This demonstrates their active contribution to the field and ability to conduct independent, high-quality research.

Candidates with over 5-7 years of experience post-PhD are often considered for tenured positions.

Those with more than ten years of experience may be eligible for senior positions such as department chair or dean, and may have additional administrative or leadership responsibilities.

 

Professor of Anthropology Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Professor of Anthropology usually requires a doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in anthropology or a related field.

The journey typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology, sociology, history, or related fields, followed by a master’s degree in anthropology.

This education provides a foundational understanding of human behavior, culture, and society, both past and present.

Upon completion of a master’s degree, aspiring professors typically enter a doctoral program, which includes rigorous coursework and independent research leading to a dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field of anthropology.

Doctoral programs can take several years to complete and are often followed by a postdoctoral fellowship or research position to gain additional experience and publications.

In addition to their academic training, professors of anthropology require strong teaching skills.

These can be obtained through teaching assistant roles, tutoring, or specific programs focused on pedagogy and learning.

While not always required, gaining certification from a recognized anthropological society or organization may enhance credibility and job prospects.

Lastly, the role of a professor often necessitates a commitment to lifelong learning and staying up-to-date with the latest research and theories in anthropology.

This could involve attending academic conferences, reading scholarly articles, and participating in fieldwork.

 

Professor of Anthropology Salary Expectations

A Professor of Anthropology typically earns an average salary of $94,271 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary widely depending on factors such as educational background, years of experience, the institution of employment, and geographical location.

 

Professor of Anthropology Job Description FAQs

What are the qualifications needed to become a Professor of Anthropology?

The typical minimum requirement is a PhD in Anthropology or a closely related field.

A master’s degree may be sufficient for some community college positions.

In addition, professors typically need a strong record of academic research and publications.

They should also have teaching experience, often gained during graduate school.

 

What are the main responsibilities of a Professor of Anthropology?

Professors of Anthropology are responsible for teaching anthropology courses, conducting scholarly research, and publishing findings in academic journals.

They’re also expected to develop course syllabi, advise students, serve on academic committees, and stay updated with current anthropology research and theories.

 

What skills are important for a Professor of Anthropology?

Aside from a deep understanding of anthropology, professors should have excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively deliver lectures and publish research.

They should also have strong analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and a passion for research.

Interpersonal skills are also essential as they frequently interact with students, colleagues, and other professionals in their field.

 

Is there a high demand for Professors of Anthropology?

The demand for Professors of Anthropology can vary depending on location, institution, and specialization within anthropology.

Generally, academia is highly competitive, and anthropology is no exception.

However, those with a strong record of published research and teaching experience may have better job prospects.

 

What should I look for in a resume when hiring a Professor of Anthropology?

Firstly, check their educational qualifications; a Ph.D. in Anthropology is usually required.

Look for evidence of teaching experience, which could be in the form of teaching assistantships or guest lectures.

Also, assess their publication record and research experience, as these are critical aspects of a professor’s role.

You may also want to consider their areas of specialization and how these align with your department’s needs.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the fascinating world of being a Professor of Anthropology.

Guess what?

It’s not just about teaching classes.

It’s about exploring the tapestry of human culture and history, one lesson at a time.

With our comprehensive Professor of Anthropology job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready for your next academic adventure.

But don’t just stop there.

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your key to precision-crafted job listings or refining your academic CV to perfection.

Remember:

Every lesson you teach is part of a larger narrative.

Let’s uncover that narrative. Together.