Wichita State University

Department: Department of Anthropology

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with education and experience

Work Schedule: 8-5 M-F occasional weekends and/or evenings as needed

Export Compliance Requirement: No export control requirement.

Job Story

The Department of Anthropology at Wichita State University invites applications for a full-time Visiting Professor or Educator to lead the University’s efforts to ensure compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). This is a limited-term appointment expected to last up to three (3) years, subject to funding, institutional priorities and needs, and performance. During the first year, the successful candidate is expected to devote their full attention and service to the University’s NAGPRA compliance efforts (no teaching expectations). Teaching opportunities are expected in subsequent years as paid overload opportunities and/or within load opportunities (0/1 or 1/1), depending upon the University’s NAGPRA needs.

This unique role supports both the educational mission of WSU as well as its ethical and legal responsibilities under NAGPRA. The successful candidate will be based in the Department of Anthropology and will work collaboratively across campus with faculty, administration, legal counsel, and tribal partners.

Job Summary

Teach courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels using various instructional deliveries (e.g., traditional (face-to-face), hybrid, and fully online). To foster applied learning into the course design and engage with industry and local business community applied projects. To advance knowledge through scholarly activities (e.g., active involvement in committees, student mentorship, recruitment and retention initiative, outreach activities, etc.)

Essential Functions

Meet expectations for research, teaching, and service as set forth by the department and college.

Job Duties

As NAGPRA Coordinator:

• Lead and manage all aspects of the University’s NAGPRA compliance, including consultation, inventory, repatriation, and reporting activities.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for tribal nations, the National NAGPRA Program, and relevant internal stakeholders.
• Interface with and serve as a member of the WSU NAGPRA Oversight Committee, providing updates and routine reports on progress, successes, and barriers to support program goals and compliance.
• Prepare and submit required documentation, maintain compliance records, and ensure timely and accurate communication with federal agencies and tribal nations.
• Develop proposals and external funding requests to support NAGPRA activities and administer any awarded grants and/or contracts.

As Visiting Professor

• If requested by the Department of Anthropology, and dependent on time requirements for NAGPRA duties, teach one to two courses per academic year in related fields such as, but not limited to: anthropological ethics, indigenous studies, collections management, forensic anthropology or human osteology.
• If requested by the Department of Anthropology, contribute to academic advising, mentoring, and curriculum development, especially in areas related to repatriation and cultural resource management.
• If requested by the Department of Anthropology, engage in scholarly or applied research consistent with the mission of the Department of Anthropology and the University

Faculty Requirements

MA in Anthropology, Indigenous Studies, Indigenous Law, Museum Studies, or Equivalent

Grant-writing experience

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated knowledge of NAGPRA and its legal (including but not limited to 43 CFR Part 10), ethical, practical implications, and best practices
• Ability to read and interpret policy, as well as state and federal regulations
• Ability to assume responsibility and to work independently with minimum guidance
• Excellent research and writing skills, and the ability to synthesize and clearly present complex information
• High attention to detail and discretion in culturally sensitive realms
• Knowledge of precolonial, colonial, and modern histories of indigenous peoples of North America
• Familiarity with MS Office Products, including Teams
• Ability to teach undergraduate or graduate courses of interest in anthropology

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with NAGPRA compliance, either participating in and/or leading institutional compliance efforts
• University-level teaching experience
• Familiarity with federal compliance standards and reporting systems
• Osteological collection management experience

Additional Information:

This position is open in terms of rank. Applicants must hold an MA in an appropriate discipline, though those who are ABD or hold a PhD are also encouraged to apply.

This position is in-person and not eligible for remote work (though remote work may be negotiable over summer 2025)

This is a limited-term, annual appointment for up to three (3) years. Continuation beyond the initial term is not guaranteed and will depend on institutional needs, funding availability, and performance.

To apply for this position, please complete the Faculty Profile and include the name and contact information for three (3) references. In addition, please upload the following:

1. Letter of application

2. Curriculum Vitae

Review of applications will begin on May 12th and continue until the position is filled.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to remain in a stationary position – Frequent 60-90%; Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators – Frequent 60-90%