Lecturer in Cultural Anthropology at SMU

About the Position

Southern Methodist University (SMU), Dallas, invites applications for a Lecturer in Cultural Anthropology within the Department of Anthropology, starting 1 August 2026. This is a career-track, renewable position with opportunities for promotion. The role focuses on complementing departmental strengths in environment, health, economics, and heritage while primarily teaching undergraduates, with some scope for graduate-level instruction. With a 4:4 teaching load, no contractual research or service obligations, and access to internal conference and research funding, this post offers stability and professional growth. The department values innovative teaching, interdisciplinary perspectives, and community engagement, making this an exciting opportunity to contribute to one of the strongest anthropology programmes in the United States. The search is chaired by Dr Nia Parson.

Position/Job Details

Position: Lecturer in Cultural Anthropology
Institution: Southern Methodist University
Department: Anthropology
Research Field: Cultural Anthropology
Location: Dallas, Texas, United States
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Career-track (renewable with promotion ladder)
Start Date (Anticipated): August 2026
Working Hours: Full-time teaching load (4:4)
Salary Range: Not specified
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Cultural Anthropology
Environment
Health
Economics
Heritage

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in Anthropology by 1 August 2026
Demonstrated excellence in teaching

Preferred Qualifications:

Teaching experience across undergraduate and graduate levels
Ability to design and deliver innovative syllabi
Strong record of student engagement and inclusive pedagogy

Key Responsibilities

Teach undergraduate and some graduate-level courses in cultural anthropology
Deliver Introduction to Cultural Anthropology and other relevant modules
Prepare syllabi, lectures, and assessments
Contribute to departmental teaching strengths in environment, health, economics, and heritage
Engage in mentoring and advising students

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit application materials via Interfolio at apply.

Required Documents:

Cover letter (teaching experience and fit with departmental areas)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Names and contact details of three referees
Teaching portfolio including:
- Teaching philosophy statement
- Course evaluations
- Three syllabi (including one for Introduction to Cultural Anthropology)