Biological Anthropology: Human biological variation and health

The Department of Anthropology at the University of Pittsburgh invites applications for a tenure-stream Beginning Assistant or Advanced Assistant Professor position in biological anthropology to begin Fall 2026, pending budgetary approval. We seek a biological anthropologist with expertise in human biological variation. We are particularly interested in scholars whose research explores health among contemporary living populations to address the complex relationship between sociocultural processes, environment, and human biology. Candidates whose research is driven by collaborative partnerships with local and descendant communities are encouraged to apply. Methodological areas of expertise are open but should add to and complement existing strengths in our department. The geographic area is open.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. in Anthropology or a closely related field at the time of appointment. Applicants should have a broad, interdisciplinary approach to the field as a whole and a commitment to research. We are interested in scholars whose engaged collaborative work involves methodologies and analytical frameworks that complement our medical anthropology program and will support students pursuing a joint PhD/MPH program. The successful candidate is expected to have and maintain an active research program and pursue external funding; attract, advise and mentor undergraduate and graduate students; and have the potential and desire for innovative collaboration with other communities and institutions within and beyond the University. Preference will be given to candidates with active field research programs and complementary laboratory research for the integration and training of students, and the potential to initiate outreach engagement with the community. They will contribute to departmental and wider university administration and participate in the intellectual life of the department. Teaching responsibilities will include two courses in each of the Fall and Spring terms at undergraduate and graduate levels, including large lecture courses; smaller undergraduate seminar, methods and writing courses; and graduate biological anthropology core, professionalization, and elective courses. The applicant will be expected to develop undergraduate and graduate courses that reflect their area of expertise.

Please upload a cover letter, curriculum vitae, and names and email addresses for three references. No additional material should be submitted. Candidates on a medium list will be requested to submit a writing sample, two syllabi, and a one-page research statement detailing their research plans for the next 5 years.

Questions about this search should be directed to Joseph S. Alter, jsalter@pitt.edu.

Review of applications will begin on November 1 and will continue until the position is filled.

Required Materials:
Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae, and names and email addresses for three references.

No additional materials should be submitted. Candidates on a medium list will be requested to submit a writing sample, two syllabi, and a one-page research statement detailing their research plans for the next 5 years.