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Assistant / Associate Professor of Anthropology (Archaeology and Bioarchaeology) – University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA

The University of Kentucky invites applications for an Archaeology & Bioarchaeology Faculty Job in its Department of Anthropology. The successful candidate will teach archaeology and biological anthropology, conduct research in bioarchaeology and related fields, and develop a public archaeology research programme involving contemporary communities and cultural heritage.

The position is based in Lexington, Kentucky, USA, with an expected start date of 1 August 2027. Applications will be reviewed from 1 November 2026 and accepted until the position is filled.

Position Details

About the Position

The Department of Anthropology at the University of Kentucky seeks a broadly trained archaeologist with expertise in biological anthropology. The successful candidate will teach courses in both fields and conduct research in areas such as bioarchaeology, mortuary analysis, human variation, health and disease, and diet.

The appointee will also develop an applied public archaeology research programme that engages contemporary communities and addresses cultural heritage. Expertise in post-contact North America is preferred but not essential.

The anticipated distribution of effort is:

  • Teaching: 50%
  • Research: 40%
  • Departmental service: 10%

The position is a full-time, nine-month, tenure-track appointment beginning on 1 August 2027.

Research Areas

The position may be suitable for candidates working in the following areas:

  • Archaeology
  • Biological Anthropology
  • Bioarchaeology
  • Mortuary Analysis
  • Human Variation
  • Health and Disease
  • Diet and Human Biology
  • Public Archaeology
  • Cultural Heritage
  • Community-Engaged Archaeological Research

Eligibility and Qualifications

Applicants must:

  • Hold a PhD in Anthropology, Archaeology or a related discipline by the time of appointment.
  • Have expertise in archaeology and biological anthropology.
  • Be able to teach courses in both fields.
  • Have research interests in bioarchaeology, mortuary analysis, human variation, health and disease, diet, or related areas.
  • Develop a public archaeology research programme that engages contemporary communities and cultural heritage.

Expertise in post-contact North America is preferred but not essential.

Key Responsibilities

  • Teach courses in archaeology and biological anthropology.
  • Conduct research in archaeology, bioarchaeology or related areas.
  • Develop an active, applied public archaeology research programme.
  • Engage contemporary communities through public archaeology and cultural heritage research.
  • Contribute to the department’s existing archaeological and biological research interests.
  • Undertake departmental service as part of the faculty appointment.

Salary and Benefits

The University of Kentucky offers the following benefits:

  • Retirement plan contributions
  • Medical coverage
  • Life insurance
  • Optional dental and vision insurance
  • Additional retirement plans

The salary for this position has not been specified in the official job posting. Please check the university’s website for any updates.

Application Process

Applicants should submit their applications through the official University of Kentucky recruitment portal. Prepare the required documents before applying:

Required Documents

  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Research Statement
  • Teaching Statement

Applicants must also provide the names and contact details of three references in the academic profile. The university may contact these referees to request recommendation letters.

Interested candidates can review the complete vacancy details and submit their applications through the official University of Kentucky recruitment portal.

For enquiries, contact Christopher Pool, Search Committee Chair, Department of Anthropology, at christopher.pool@uky.edu.

Looking for upcoming conferences, field schools, and congresses in archaeology and related disciplines? Visit our Academic Events page to explore upcoming opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can candidates with a PhD in Archaeology apply for this position?
Yes. The university accepts a PhD in Anthropology, Archaeology or a related discipline, provided the degree is held by the time of appointment.

Is expertise in North American archaeology compulsory?
No. Expertise in post-contact North America is preferred, but candidates without this geographical and chronological specialisation may still apply.

What is the expected balance between teaching and research?
The anticipated distribution of effort is 50% teaching, 40% research and 10% departmental service.

Does the position involve community engagement?
Yes. The successful candidate is expected to develop an applied public archaeology research programme involving contemporary communities and cultural heritage.

Related Opportunities: Faculty Jobs | Academic Jobs | Anthropology Jobs | Archaeology Jobs | Bioarchaeology Jobs

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