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, Latin America 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

The Department of Anthropology is searching for an Archaeologist with expertise in evolutionary models (e.g., behavioral ecology) and an active field research program in Western North America (preferably the Great Basin or Colorado Plateau). The position is a tenure-track one at the Assistant or beginning Associate Professor level. Applications should be received by March 1, 2012 for earliest consideration.   View the complete announcement here.

Faculty and students were shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Karen Ramey Burns, adjunct professor of Anthropology, on January 7, 2012. Dr. Burns' students have submitted a brief tribute to Dr. Burns' life, career, and contributions to forensic anthropology. Her professionalism, collegiality, and mentorship is deeply missed.

32nd Annual Rufus Wood Leigh Lecture. The Department of Anthropology is pleased to announce the 32nd Annual Rufus Wood Leigh Lecture at 7:00pm on Monday, April 16th in the Gould Auditorium (Marriott Library). The guest lecturer is Biological Anthropologist Dr. Dennis H. O'Rourke who will speak on the current genetic models relating to the colonization of North and South America by Native Americans. His talk is entitled "Over the Top: Contradictions and Concordances in American Colonization Models". The lecture is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.

Anthropology Film Series, 2012 :   We are again partnering with the Museum of Fine Arts to show five feature films each Wedneday during the month of February.   Visit a relevant museum exhibit before each film under the guidance of museum staff, and stay after the film for a discussion led by experts with knowledge of the topic.  Films begin at 6pm, museum tours at 5:30.   See the calendar for full information.   All are welcome.