Assistant Professor of Anthropology

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Mississippi invites applications for a tenure-track position in archaeology at the rank of Assistant Professor to begin August 2025. Candidates should have a Ph.D. by the time of appointment.

We are looking for a scholar specializing in North American archaeology with expertise in archaeological materials analysis and whose work complements existing department strengths. This is a 9-month, tenure-track position with responsibilities in teaching, research, and service. The teaching load is 3/2. Teaching expectations include introductory-level courses, North American archaeology courses, an archaeological methods course, and courses in the candidate’s areas of research expertise. The successful candidate will be capable of mentoring undergraduate and graduate M.A. thesis research.

The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated record of theoretically grounded, hypothesis-driven research. Research interest in human-environment relationships is desirable. They will also have a record of successful grant writing and publication, and an active field or lab-based research program that could incorporate student participation. The ability to offer an archaeological field school is preferred but not required. Collaborations with colleagues on and off campus and with community partners, especially descendant communities, are encouraged.

The successful candidate is expected to support the needs of the Department and the work of the Center for Archaeological Research. The Center and the Department curate extensive archaeological collections, mainly from the American Southeast. The Center’s newly renovated labs are equipped to support faculty and student research, especially research incorporating existing collections. Applications from candidates with demonstrated collections and NAGPRA-related experience are encouraged.

Position Details

Appointment: 9 Month

Assignment Type: Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

Candidates will hold a Ph.D. in anthropology or closely related field by the time of appointment. They should also have an active field or lab-based research agenda in North American archaeology, experience with grant writing and publication, and ability to teach and mentor students at the undergraduate and graduate M.A. levels.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preference will be given to candidates who expand existing department strengths. Ideal candidates will also have experience in several of the following areas: conducting research related to human-environment relationships, directing an archaeological field school, collaborating with colleagues and community partners, incorporating archaeological collections into research and teaching, and working with collection management and NAGPRA-related issues. 

Application Procedures

Interested candidates should apply online at https://careers.olemiss.edu by submitting their curriculum vitae, a 2–3-page letter of application, and the names of three references. Letters should highlight the candidate’s research and teaching experience and how they will contribute to the Department’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive academic community. Questions for the search committee can be directed to Dr. Jesse Tune at jwtune@olemiss.edu. Review of applications will begin on November 8, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled. The University of Mississippi is committed to equity in higher education and seeks to incorporate diversity, equity, and inclusion into research, teaching, and service missions. Applicants from unrepresented communities are encouraged to apply.

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.

Interview Requirements: 
Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.