Picture this: You’re standing in front of an engaged classroom of students, holding up a replica of an ancient artifact while explaining how it reveals fascinating details about past human societies. The students lean forward, captivated by how this single object connects to broader themes of human cultural development.
Think about those moments when you’ve wondered about human origins, cultural differences, or ancient civilizations. Anthropology and archaeology professors guide students through these fundamental questions about human existence, helping them understand both our past and present through scientific and cultural lenses.
These educators combine research expertise with teaching skills to prepare the next generation of anthropologists and archaeologists.
Total employment: 6,300 (2023)
Common Names for Anthropology & Archaeology Teachers, Postsecondary
- Adjunct Instructor
- Anthropology Instructor
- Anthropology Professor
- Archaeology Professor
- Assistant Professor
- Associate Professor
- Cultural Anthropology Professor
- Instructor, Lecturer
- Professor
What Anthropology & Archaeology Teachers, Postsecondary Do
Anthropology and archaeology professors engage in both teaching and research activities. Their core responsibilities include:
- Classroom Instruction: Deliver comprehensive lectures and lead discussions on anthropological and archaeological theories, methods, and findings to develop students’ understanding of human cultures and societies across time.
- Research Development: Design and conduct original research projects in anthropology or archaeology to contribute to the field’s knowledge base and maintain academic currency while enriching classroom teaching.
- Student Assessment: Evaluate student learning through assignments, examinations, and research projects to measure comprehension and provide constructive feedback that supports academic growth.
- Curriculum Development: Create and update course content, syllabi, and teaching materials to ensure programs remain current with field developments and meet educational standards.
- Laboratory Supervision: Oversee anthropology or archaeology laboratories, ensuring proper use of equipment and adherence to safety protocols while teaching students practical research methods.
- Academic Advising: Guide students in course selection, research projects, and career planning to support their academic progress and professional development in anthropology or archaeology.
- Professional Collaboration: Participate in departmental meetings, committees, and academic conferences to contribute to institutional growth and maintain professional networks.
- Grant Management: Write and manage research grants to secure funding for departmental projects and student research opportunities, ensuring compliance with institutional and funding requirements.
Research Activities
- Conduct original research in their specialized field: Teachers explore topics like human evolution, cultural practices, ancient civilizations, or archaeological methods to advance the discipline.
- Publish findings in academic journals and books: Sharing research outcomes ensures their work contributes to scholarly conversations and informs future studies.
- Present at academic conferences and symposia: Professors discuss their research with peers, fostering collaboration and feedback.
- Write grant proposals for research funding: Securing funding supports fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and academic publications.
- Collaborate with other institutions and researchers: Partnering with colleagues enhances multidisciplinary studies and broadens the scope of their projects.
Administrative Duties
- Serve on academic committees: Professors participate in shaping departmental policies, hiring decisions, and curriculum development.
- Participate in departmental meetings: They contribute to discussions about departmental goals and strategies.
- Advise students on academic and career paths: Teachers guide students in selecting courses, pursuing research opportunities, and planning future careers.
- Manage teaching assistants and research assistants: Overseeing assistants to ensure efficient support for lectures, research, and student assessments.
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