The Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures (AMEC) at Mississippi State University invites applications for a tenure-track position at the rank of Assistant Professor beginning August 2026 for an archaeologist with an active research agenda focusing on the Southeastern U.S. Areas of temporal and methodological interest are open, but preferred candidates will have interests and skill sets that complement those of current faculty. Special consideration will be given to candidates with a background in data science. 

AMEC is a dynamic, growing department offering an anthropology major and Middle Eastern studies minor, with an applied anthropology MA program including an archaeology track. AMEC is housed within the Cobb Institute of Archaeology, and the successful candidate will be a Senior Research Associate in the Cobb. A strong, active research agenda with the potential for involving graduate students is crucial to this position. The successful candidate will contribute to our track in applied archaeology and must demonstrate a strong commitment to both graduate and undergraduate teaching and mentoring including the teaching of summer field schools. The position carries a 2:3 teaching load and a nationally competitive salary.

Mississippi State University is a top 100 major research university, designated as a “very high research activity university” and recipient of a Community Engagement Classification from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Mississippi State University is located in Starkville, MS, which is a progressive, growing, sun-belt community.

Rank: Assistant professor.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Basic qualifications: Applicant must have a Ph.D. or equivalent foreign degree in Anthropology or closely related field. Ph.D. must be in hand by August 15, 2026. The successful candidate must demonstrate strong research activity and an excellent record of teaching.

Position available: August 16, 2026, with academic year beginning Fall 2026.

To apply: Applicants must apply online at www.jobs.msstate.edu by completing the Personal Data Information form and attaching a cover letter, which should address the candidates current and future research agenda and teaching philosophy; a current vitae; and the names and contact information for three professional references. The cover letter, vita, and list of references may also be sent to Tony Boudreaux at eab4@msstate.edu. To guarantee consideration, materials should be received by November 24, 2025. The position will remain open until filled, but no later than August 16th, 2026. Please include an email address to facilitate contact.

EEO Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. Please see the following: www.policies.msstate.edu/policypdfs/0302.pdf

Closing date: Review of applications will begin immediately. To ensure full consideration, applications should be completed by November 24, 2025. The position will remain open until filled, but not later than August 16, 2026.