Visiting Faculty of Anthropology
Position Summary
The Visiting Assistant Professor will teach four courses per semester, including introductory biological anthropology and potentially courses such as Human Origins and Methods in Biological Anthropology. Specialization and geographic focus are open.
Applicants should highlight their interest in teaching at a liberal arts institution that values meaningful, collaborative interactions between faculty and students.
Required Qualifications
- ABD in Anthropology from an accredited institution
- Experience teaching biological anthropology at the undergraduate level
- Strong interpersonal skills, including respect, empathy, and the ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds
- Demonstrated ability to support inclusive and community-engaged learning
Preferred Qualifications
- Completed PhD in Anthropology by the start of Winter 2026
Responsibilities
- Teach four courses each semester (Winter 2026, Fall 2026, Winter 2027)
- Support curriculum development within biological anthropology
- Engage with students through high-impact teaching practices and accessible mentorship
Salary & Benefits
- $50,000 annual salary
- Comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Tuition waiver
- Adoption resources
- Wellness coaching
- Free access to campus fitness facilities
About the Anthropology Department
The department includes nine full-time faculty members and multiple part-time instructors. It offers:
- BA and BS degrees in Anthropology
- An Anthropology minor
- Significant contributions to GVSU’s General Education Program
- Participation in an interdisciplinary archaeology minor
- A student-centered academic environment
- Strong faculty mentorship
- Commitment to community engagement, inclusivity, and interdisciplinary collaboration
- Cover letter addressing qualifications and motivation to teach at GVSU
- Curriculum vitae
- Contact information for three professional references
- Graduate transcripts (unofficial student copies accepted)
The department emphasizes rigorous teaching, student-centered learning, and collaborative research opportunities.
About the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS)
CLAS is GVSU’s largest college, offering over 50 bachelor’s programs. The college is known for:
About Grand Valley State University
GVSU is a public university serving more than 23,000 students across campuses in Allendale, Grand Rapids, Holland, and centers in Detroit, Muskegon, and Traverse City. The West Michigan region offers affordability, cultural richness, and easy access to Chicago, Detroit, and Lake Michigan.
How to Apply
Submit the following documents via GVSU Careers:
Applicants invited for interviews will need to provide official transcripts.
Contact Information
Questions about the position may be directed to Gwyn Madden (maddeng@gvsu.edu).
Technical Assistance
For technical assistance, email hro@gvsu.edu.
Application Deadline
Review of applications begins November 25, 2025, and continues until the position is filled. The posting may close at any time.
Equal Opportunity Statement
GVSU is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to providing equal opportunity to protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, and additional identities as defined by university policy. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities. TDD callers may use Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in-state) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of state).