Biological Anthropologist

The Department of Anthropology in the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track position in paleoanthropology beginning fall semester 2026. We seek scholars at the cutting edge of biological anthropology who critically utilize scientific approaches, broadly conceived, to answer anthropological questions related to the evolution and variation of humans and/or hominin ancestors. Possible research areas include hominin fossil record and skeletal anatomy, biomechanics and functional morphology, or evolutionary approaches to the study of human adaptations. Appointment will be 100% time over the nine-month academic year (late August to late May). The appointment will be made at the rank of tenure-track Assistant Professor, depending on qualifications and experience, and consistent with collegiate and University policy.

Faculty in the Department of Anthropology in the College of Liberal Arts are expected to maintain an active program of scholarly research or creative activity that includes publications; teaching undergraduate and graduate level courses; advising students; pursuit of extramural funding; and service effort appropriate for the level of appointment to the department, college, university and profession. The holder of this position is expected to teach two courses per semester, which includes joining the teaching rotation for a large introductory course in biological anthropology, as well as developing specific undergraduate and graduate courses in the candidate's area of expertise. We are especially interested in candidates who, broadly conceived, enhance diversity in the department and whose interests integrate with and expand on current department expertise in biological anthropology, and can interface with the four fields of anthropology.

The Standards for Promotion and Tenure in the Department of Anthropology are available at: https://z.umn.edu/AnthStandardsPromotionTenure

The Workload Principles and Guidelines for Regular Faculty in the College of Liberal Arts are available at https://z.umn.edu/CLAFacultyWorkloadPrinciplesGuidelines

Required Qualifications:

A Ph.D. in anthropology or closely related field is expected to be in hand at the time of the appointment.

Preferred Qualifications:

Evidence of research - including postdoctoral or equivalent post-degree experience - in biological anthropology, specifically of paleoanthropology, functional anatomy, or similar.

Candidates will be evaluated according to the overall quality of their academic preparation, the strength of their research and its relevance to the department's academic priorities and the field of inquiry, evidence of commitment to teaching and skills as a teacher, and the quality of recommendations. The successful applicant will have a strong commitment to contribute at all levels of our undergraduate and graduate programs.

Pay Range: $75,000 - $150,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience. Faculty positions also include significant start-up funds.

Time Appointment Category: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Required documents must be attached by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and can be attached after submission of the application by exiting and re-entering the Job Center, accessing your "My Job Applications" page, and uploading documents there. The following materials must be attached to your online application: (1) cover letter; (2) curriculum vitae; (3) research statement; (4) teaching statement; (5) and names, addresses and email contact information for three references as a separate attachment in "My Job Applications." Additional materials may be requested at a later date.

The priority deadline for application materials is October 17, 2025. This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).