University of Utah Anthropology Department

Anthropology is the comparative, evolutionary and historical study of humankind. Our department takes a theoretically-driven, empirically-informed approach to this study, and has special expertise in archaeology, genetics, behavioral ecology, demography, hunter-gatherers, and evolutionary approaches to human behavior. Our regional expertise is strongest in Africa, Australia, New Guinea, the Middle East, and western North America. We have a small but influential faculty, three of whom (Harpending, Hawkes, O'Connell) are members of the National Academy of Sciences. Many faculty members do research that crosses disciplinary and sub-disciplinary lines, and we encourage students to do the same.

News

position open: tenure track, assistant or associate professor, specialization open, heatlh-related interests desirable. Details here.

The undergraduate Anthropology Club has some exciting events planned for fall '09.    All are welcome.

"Utah to turn over fabled Range Creek canyon to U. of U. archaeologists" -- SL Tribune article describes the transfer and the work of Anthropology Professor Duncan Metcalfe in the canyon.

Distinguished Professor of Anthropology Kristen Hawkes was one of three U. Utah faculty to be elected this year to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. The American Academy is one of the nation's most prestigious honorary societies and a center for independent policy research.

Congratulations to Anthropology Professor Polly Wiessner, who was awarded the University of Utah's prestigious Distinguished Scholarly and Creative Research Award for 2009.    The NY Times interview with Dr. Wiessner tells about "Where Gifts and Stories are Crucial to Survival".

The Integrative Human Biology (IHB) minor, an initiative of the anthropology and biology departments, has now been approved. The minor is open to students in all majors, and should be of particular interest to students who are considering careers in the health professions, environmental science and law, forensic sciences, biology, and anthropology.     For further information about the program, contact Sandra McCarthy (IHB and Anthro advisor) at 801-581-6251, or just stop by the anthro main office at 102 Stewart Hall.

The Major in Anthropology with Health Emphasis is designed for pre-med and other students intending to enter health-related professional schools. For more information, see Sandra McCarthy, undergraduate anthropology advisor (581-6251).