Assistant Professor of Anthropology | Ohio State University

Job Title:

Assistant Professor of Anthropology

Arts and Sciences | Anthropology

The Department of Anthropology in the College of Arts and Sciences at The Ohio State University invites applications for a tenure-track assistant professor position in archaeology. While research specialization is open, preference will be given to North American or Midwestern archaeologists who have experience and interest in directing a field school. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the position will begin in the fall of 2027.

Preferred applicants will demonstrate the potential for a sustained and substantial body of empirical work.

The successful candidate will be expected to maintain a productive research program demonstrated through publication in respected journals, seek external funding through competitive grants, teach a range of graduate and undergraduate courses, mentor students at both levels, contribute to departmental and university operations as an engaged citizen, and provide service to the discipline.

Required:

The successful candidate will hold a Ph.D. in Anthropology or a related field and have an ongoing or developing program of research, with evidence of potential or experience in teaching both graduate and undergraduate courses, mentoring students at both levels, publishing in highly respected journals, edited volumes, and other strong outlets, applying for external research grants, and providing service to the university, department, and discipline.

Desired:
The ideal candidate will have expertise in North American or Midwestern archaeology, be adept and interested in directing a local field school, be able to strengthen research and teaching collaborations with colleagues both within and beyond the department, and demonstrate the potential to make a significant positive impact on the field of archaeology.

Ohio State provides access to a depth and breadth of opportunities and resources. Starting your first day, Ohio State offers you a comprehensive benefits package.

With more than 80 majors and 100 minors, the College of Arts and Sciences is the academic heart of the university. The Arts and Sciences provides extraordinary opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, blending creativity and analysis to truly be at the forefront of thought. The breadth and depth of knowledge in the college gives students and researchers the critical thinking and adaptability essential for a lifetime of success.

The Department of Anthropology at OSU has experienced significant growth over the past two decades, with strategic expansion in biological anthropology and increasing balance across sub-disciplines. Faculty are highly experienced, though the department is actively pursuing junior hires to ensure future vitality. Research productivity has risen sharply, and national rankings place the department among the top ten programs. Undergraduate engagement is strong, with five majors—including a new BS in Forensic Anthropology—and rising enrollments.

The department is deeply involved in the Honors Program and General Education curriculum, with faculty committed to mentoring and research. The graduate program has been recently overhauled, offering guaranteed funding and updated curricula. Collaborative working groups, strong leadership, and committed staff contribute to a dynamic academic environment. The university is committed to continued investment, and the department is well-positioned to become a national leader in anthropology.

Ohio State is a top-20 public university, and its Ohio State Wexner Medical Center is one of America’s leading academic health centers. Eligible Ohio State employees receive comprehensive benefits packages, including medical, dental and vision insurance, tuition assistance for employees and their dependents, and state or alternative retirement options with competitive employer contributions. Grounded in Ohio State University’s…