5 Physical Anthropologist Job Description Templates and Examples

Physical Anthropologists study human biological and physiological characteristics and their evolution. They analyze human remains, genetics, and physical traits to understand human origins, adaptations, and variations. Junior roles typically involve assisting in research and data collection, while senior and lead positions focus on directing research projects, publishing findings, and mentoring junior anthropologists.

1. Junior Physical Anthropologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for a passionate and detail-oriented Junior Physical Anthropologist to join our research team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will support the collection, analysis, and interpretation of biological data related to human evolution and variability. Your contributions will be instrumental in advancing our understanding of physical anthropology and its applications in our ongoing projects.

Responsibilities

  • Assist in the collection and documentation of anthropometric data from various field sites
  • Conduct laboratory analyses, including skeletal analysis and morphological measurements
  • Support senior researchers in the interpretation of anthropological findings and data
  • Maintain organized records of research activities and findings
  • Participate in team meetings to discuss research objectives and outcomes
  • Contribute to the preparation of reports and presentations for various stakeholders

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Anthropology, Biology, or a related field
  • Strong foundational knowledge of human anatomy and evolutionary theory
  • Experience with basic statistical analysis and data interpretation

Preferred:

  • Field experience in physical anthropology or related research projects
  • Familiarity with laboratory techniques related to biological anthropology
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficiency in data collection and management tools
  • Basic knowledge of statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R) for data analysis
  • Understanding of anthropological research methodologies

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to work effectively under supervision and as part of a team
  • A genuine enthusiasm for physical anthropology and research

Benefits and Perks

We offer a competitive salary, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in-person at our facility located in [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

2. Physical Anthropologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Physical Anthropologist to join our team, where you will play a crucial role in researching human biological diversity and evolutionary history. This fully remote position allows you to contribute to our understanding of human adaptation and health through rigorous scientific inquiry and analysis.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct fieldwork and laboratory research to gather data on human skeletal remains and biological samples.
  • Analyze morphological and genetic data to assess human variation, evolution, and adaptation.
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate anthropological findings with archaeological and cultural contexts.
  • Present research findings at conferences and publish in reputable scientific journals.
  • Engage in outreach activities to share insights from research with broader audiences, including educational institutions and public forums.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Physical Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, or a closely related field.
  • Demonstrated experience with human osteology, skeletal analysis, and bioarchaeology.
  • Strong statistical analysis skills and proficiency in relevant software packages (e.g., R, SPSS).
  • Proven ability to conduct independent research and collaborate effectively in team settings.

Preferred:

  • Experience using advanced imaging techniques (e.g., CT scanning, 3D modeling).
  • Familiarity with genetic analysis methods and software.
  • Publications in high-impact journals relevant to human biology and anthropology.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in anthropometric measurement techniques and statistical analysis.
  • Proficiency in data collection tools and software for biological research.
  • Experience with GIS applications for spatial analysis in anthropology.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in a research context.
  • Commitment to ethical research practices and respect for cultural heritage.
  • Ability to work autonomously while managing multiple projects and deadlines.

Benefits and Perks

Salary: [$SALARY_RANGE]

As a full-time employee, you will enjoy:

  • Flexible working hours to accommodate a work-life balance.
  • Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
  • Professional development opportunities, including funding for conferences and training.
  • Generous paid time off policies to support your mental and physical well-being.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, even if you do not meet every qualification listed. Your unique experiences and perspectives are valuable to us!

3. Senior Physical Anthropologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Physical Anthropologist to join our research team at [$COMPANY_NAME]. In this role, you will leverage your expertise in human evolution, biological diversity, and skeletal analysis to conduct advanced research and contribute to our understanding of human biological variation. You will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to design and implement studies that inform both academic and applied anthropological research.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and oversee research projects focused on human skeletal remains, analyzing data to draw meaningful conclusions about population health, migration patterns, and evolutionary changes.
  • Develop innovative methodologies for data collection and analysis, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and best practices in anthropological research.
  • Publish findings in reputable academic journals and present research at national and international conferences, effectively communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences.
  • Mentor junior staff and graduate students, fostering their professional development while promoting a collaborative research environment.
  • Engage with external stakeholders, including museums, universities, and governmental organizations, to establish partnerships that advance research initiatives.
  • Contribute to grant writing and funding proposals to secure financial support for ongoing research projects.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Physical Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, or a closely related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in anthropological research, with a focus on physical anthropology or bioarchaeology.
  • Demonstrated expertise in skeletal analysis and methodologies, including quantitative and qualitative research techniques.
  • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

Preferred:

  • Experience with advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scanning or 3D modeling.
  • Familiarity with genetic analysis and its applications in anthropological research.
  • Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., R, Python, or SPSS) and experience with GIS mapping.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Expertise in osteology and skeletal morphology.
  • Strong analytical skills with experience in statistical analysis and data visualization.
  • Proficient in the use of bioarchaeological field techniques and laboratory methodologies.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, with a track record of tackling complex research questions.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.
  • A collaborative mindset, with the ability to work in interdisciplinary teams and build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
  • Commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in research and academic settings.

Benefits and Perks

Annual salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE].

Additional benefits may include:

  • Comprehensive health insurance plans.
  • Generous paid time off including annual leave, sick leave, and holidays.
  • Retirement savings plan with company match.
  • Professional development funds for conferences, workshops, and training.
  • Flexible work arrangements with the expectation of in-person collaboration at least three days a week.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply, even if they do not meet all the listed qualifications.

Location

This position is hybrid, requiring presence in our office located in [$COMPANY_LOCATION] at least three days a week.

4. Lead Physical Anthropologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are looking for a dynamic Lead Physical Anthropologist to spearhead research initiatives and contribute to groundbreaking studies in human evolution, biological diversity, and the interplay between culture and biology. This role is essential in shaping our research direction and ensuring the scientific rigor of our projects.

Responsibilities

  • Design and lead comprehensive research studies focusing on human skeletal biology, human variation, and bioarchaeology
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate findings into broader anthropological and archaeological contexts
  • Publish research findings in reputable journals and present at national and international conferences
  • Mentor and guide junior researchers and students in research methodologies and analytical techniques
  • Manage fieldwork logistics, including site selection, excavation processes, and artifact analysis
  • Secure funding for research projects through grant writing and collaboration with academic institutions

Required Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Physical Anthropology or a closely related field
  • 5+ years of experience in field research and laboratory analysis
  • Demonstrated expertise in osteology, human evolutionary biology, and statistical analysis
  • Proven track record of publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals
  • Experience with grant writing and securing research funding

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in leading multi-disciplinary research projects
  • Familiarity with advanced imaging techniques and genetic analysis
  • Strong network within the anthropology research community

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Proficient in statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS) and data analysis tools
  • Knowledge of GIS and spatial analysis in anthropological research
  • Experience with laboratory techniques in isotopic analysis and ancient DNA extraction

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly to both scientific and non-scientific audiences
  • Strong leadership capabilities, with a knack for fostering collaboration and teamwork
  • Passionate about advancing the field of anthropology and addressing contemporary human issues

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Additional benefits may include:

  • Health and wellness programs
  • Paid time off and flexible scheduling
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Access to research facilities and resources

Location

This role requires successful candidates to be based in-person at [$COMPANY_LOCATION].

5. Principal Physical Anthropologist Job Description Template

Company Overview

[$COMPANY_OVERVIEW]

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled Principal Physical Anthropologist to join our team, focusing on advancing our understanding of human evolution and biological diversity. In this pivotal role, you will lead and conduct comprehensive research initiatives, providing expert insights that shape our scientific approach and influence policy decisions.

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement advanced research methodologies to investigate human biological variation and adaptation.
  • Lead interdisciplinary teams in fieldwork, data collection, and analysis, while ensuring adherence to ethical research standards.
  • Publish high-impact research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences.
  • Collaborate with external stakeholders, including academic institutions, governmental agencies, and NGOs to advance anthropological knowledge.
  • Mentor junior researchers and graduate students, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific rigor.
  • Contribute to grant proposals and secure funding for ongoing and future research projects.

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Required:

  • Ph.D. in Physical Anthropology or a related field with a minimum of 8 years of relevant research experience.
  • Demonstrated expertise in human evolutionary biology, genetics, and statistical analysis.
  • Proven track record of publishing significant research findings in reputable journals.
  • Experience in leading interdisciplinary research teams and managing complex projects.

Preferred:

  • Experience with advanced techniques such as ancient DNA analysis, isotopic analysis, and morphometric studies.
  • Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and software for data analysis.
  • Strong networking capabilities within the academic and research community.

Technical Skills and Relevant Technologies

  • Advanced proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS) and data visualization tools.
  • Experience with laboratory techniques related to physical anthropology and archaeology.
  • Knowledge of ethical research practices and compliance regulations.

Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Strong collaborator with a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive research environment.
  • Proactive problem-solving skills and the ability to thrive in a dynamic research landscape.
  • Passion for advancing the field of physical anthropology and contributing to societal understanding of human diversity.

Benefits and Perks

Salary range: [$SALARY_RANGE]

Comprehensive benefits package may include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Flexible work schedule and unlimited PTO.
  • Professional development stipends and conference attendance support.
  • Retirement savings plan with company matching.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[$COMPANY_NAME] is committed to diversity in its workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sex, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Location

This is a fully remote position.

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