Job Details

SMU 26-27 - Associate Professor of Archeology

Position Number: 9838441
Location: Dallas, United States
Position Type: Liberal Arts - Anthropology

SMU 26-27 - Associate Professor of Archeology
Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences

Location: Dallas
Open Date: Sep 17, 2026

Description:
The Department of Anthropology at Southern Methodist University invites applications for the position of an Associate Professor (with tenure) with a focus on environmental archaeology. We seek specialists with an outstanding record of community-based and locally engaged research and scholarship in archaeological sciences. Preference will be given to those with methodological expertise in geochemical or molecular methods that complement existing expertise in the department (for example biomarkers, proteomics, stable isotopes, and/or ZooMS). Topical expertise is open, but we are particularly interested in scholars with established strengths in the climatic and environmental contexts of human and social evolution, conceived broadly. Strong consideration will be given to anthropologists whose scholarship and teaching complement the regional and topical expertise of current faculty in environmental archaeology and environmental anthropology and bridge cognate campus programs. Successful applicants will have evidence of an ongoing research program, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and a commitment to fostering inclusion in academia. Regional focus is open. Applicants at the rank of Associate Professor are preferred but Assistant Professors nearing promotion and tenure will be considered. The position begins August 1, 2027.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to be a significant partner in building ties between the department and a globally connected community at the university and in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. They will also join a fast-growing, PhD-granting department that participates actively in interdisciplinary initiatives on campus through the Dedman College Interdisciplinary Institute, which features ongoing scholarly clusters in Earth Hazards and National Security, Energy and Environmental Systems, Tribal Sovereignty and Natural Resources, Asian Studies and Asian American Experiences, and Urban Research. More information on the Dedman College Interdisciplinary Institute research clusters can be found at https://www.smu.edu/dedman/research/institutes-and-centers/dcii/research/research-cluster.

Department/Division: The Department of Anthropology at SMU seeks to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people from a wide candidate pool. Accordingly, we prefer candidates who work productively with colleagues, within and across disciplines, and are skilled at communicating with multiple audiences using different forms of media. Beyond research, the successful candidate must also demonstrate a firm commitment to teaching and mentorship in a liberal arts environment. Visit us at https://www.smu.edu/dedman/academics/departments/anthropology.

SMU is a nationally ranked, private, non-sectarian research institution located in one of the nation's fastest growing metropolitan areas. Researchers are part of an inclusive and intellectually vibrant community of internationally recognized scholars across the humanities, social sciences, mathematical sciences, engineering, and business. SMU offers excellent benefits including full same-sex domestic partner benefits. The City of Dallas is one of the nation's most cosmopolitan commercial and cultural centers, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is the fourth largest in the US. Dallas' quality of life is exceptional, with a relatively low cost of living and a variety of housing options. A full range of professional sports teams, music venues, a lively and innovative restaurant scene, and more make Dallas an extremely livable city. Explore Dedman College at https://www.smu.edu/dedman, and SMU at http://www.smu.edu.

Qualifications:
Minimum qualifications: PhD in Anthropology or related field; expertise to teach courses in anthropology, specifically anthropological and archaeological science approaches to environmental issues and questions.

Preferred qualifications: Current rank of Associate Professor (or equivalent); experience teaching undergraduate or graduate courses in anthropology as well as courses in any of the following areas: environmental archaeology, archaeological sciences, paleoclimatology and/or other aspects of ancient human-environment dynamics; interest in making significant contributions to graduate education; an ambitious research agenda and scholarship which has resulted in successful grant awards, publications in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, and invited talks; experience mentoring a diverse student population.

Application Instructions:
To apply, visit <a href=""https://apptrkr.com/9838441"">https://apply.interfolio.com/193843

Submit a cover letter highlighting qualifications, a complete curriculum vitae, a research statement, and the names of three references via Interfolio at https://apply.interfolio.com/193843. To ensure full consideration for the position, the application must be received by November 1, 2026, but the committee will continue to accept applications until the position is filled. The committee will notify applicants of the employment decision after the position is filled. Hiring is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of a background check. Questions regarding the application should be directed to Dr. Christopher Roos at croos@smu.edu.

SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.