Position Function:
Teach undergraduate survey courses, such as Introduction to Anthropology, Introduction to Biological Anthropology, and Introduction to Forensic Anthropology, and other related courses. Teach advanced undergraduate students in upper-level topical or area courses, such as Human Osteology, and other related courses. Teach graduate courses in area of specialty, including seminars, special topics, and directed readings. Serve on graduate committees for M.A. students. Direct graduate M.A. theses. Serve on departmental, college, and university committees. For tenure-track but nontenured persons, expectations in this category are limited. Seek external funding via grants or contracts.
Salary Grade: UC
For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
The Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures currently has 8 faculty members (3 biological anthropologists, 2 cultural anthropologists, 3 archaeologists), 55 graduate students, and 64 undergraduate majors. Housed in Cobb Institute of Archaeology
Area of Specialization:
Biological Anthropology
Anticipated Appointment Date:
August 16, 2026
Tenure Track Status:
Tenure-Track
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Teaching responsibilities consist of teaching two classes one semester and three courses one semester. Offerings include undergraduate service courses and upper-division topical or area courses, split-level upper-division undergraduate and lower-level graduate student courses, and graduate seminars, Introduction to Biological Anthropology, Introduction to Forensic Anthropology, Advanced Methods in Forensic Anthropology, Bioarchaeology, Skeletal Biomechanics, Quantitative Methods, and Human Osteology. Development of local research projects into which students can be incorporated. Demonstrated ability to contribute intellectually and practically to the department’s growing B.A. program in Anthropology and M.A. program in Applied Anthropology. Develop contacts for graduate internships. Promote health of graduate program via external funding of Research Assistants through grants or contracts.
Minimum Qualifications:
A PhD is required at the time of appointment. Strong candidates must be able to incorporate graduate students into their research and participate concretely in the on-going development of the M.A. program in Applied Anthropology. Must be able to teach introductory courses in forensic anthropology.
Preferred Qualifications:
Specialty in Forensic Anthropology, with background in bioarchaeology. Evidence of successful teaching and research, demonstrable applied experience, American Academy of Forensic Sciences membership preferred. Evidence of forensic casework and progress towards a DABFA strongly preferred. The candidate will be expected to perform forensic casework in partnership with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety and law enforcement across the state of Mississippi.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Basic field training, including excavation, familiarity with grants and contracts, effective classroom teaching.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Ability to conduct field research in strenuous conditions.
Instructions for Applying:
Applicants must apply online at www.jobs.msstate.edu and attach a cover letter, which should address the candidates current and future research agenda and teaching philosophy; a current vitae; and the names and contact information for three professional references. The cover letter, vita, and list of references may also be sent to Jesse.goliath@anthro.msstate.edu. To guarantee consideration, materials must be received by November 1, 2025, and will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. Please include an email address to facilitate contact.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
