Anthropologist Job Description
Anthropologist Job Profile and Description
One of the research intensive scientists in the social sciences is the Anthropologist who works mostly in the academe, museums and government agencies. Anthropologists often spearhead excavation expeditions and conduct research work to evaluate, and establish authenticity of excavation finds on human fossils and ancient burial sites. The profession has become specialized in the fields of linguistics, socio-cultural, biological and physical anthropology.
Anthropologist Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct research work and oversea the collection of pertinent data and arrive at judgments through observation, data analyses, interviews, and the review of documents.
- Plan and direct research work that can compare the demographic, economic, medical, governmental, social, linguistic, and religious practices of distinct cultural communities and organizations.
- Draft, present or publish research findings to various specialized and general audiences.
- Identify implication and contextual significance of culturally specific beliefs and practices that affect population shifts, health patterns and social trends.
- Advise museums and private interest groups or foundations, government agencies, and communities regarding proposed programs and bureaucratic policies with potential impacts on local and national cultures and traditions.
- Conduct circuit lectures and conferences in colleges and universities.
Anthropologist Skills and Specifications
- Must have the unique analytical and deductive reasoning abilities
- Must have excellent organizational skills for sorting through anthropological finds
- Must have strong investigative and observation skills
- Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills to present and publish research findings
Anthropologist Education and Qualifications
- A master’s degree in Anthropology or the Social Sciences is basic for a position in research or the academe.
- A PhD in the same field is an advantage but is necessary in a teaching profession
- Internship in a museum or historical societies is preferred
- 6-9 years of experience in the research or teaching faculty is an advantage
Anthropologist Salary
In 2009, the average annual salary for anthropologists was $88,302. Beginning salaries were higher in some states where the prevailing local salaries were generally higher.