The Department of Anthropology at the University of Tennessee seeks a visionary leader to serve as the Director of the Forensic Anthropology Center (FAC). This full-time, 12-month, non-tenure-track staff position will oversee the globally renowned FAC, including the Anthropology Research Facility and the UTK Donated Skeletal Collection, ensuring continued excellence in forensic research, teaching, and service. The start date is July 1, 2025.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and guide the research and public service missions of the FAC, including the body donation program and casework.
• Develop and implement strategic goals to ensure growth and engagement with the forensic community.
• Manage the operating budget and engage in development activities to support financial health.
• Lead external grant and funding efforts, including collaborations with agencies such as NIJ, DARPA, and the Department of Defense.
• Maintain partnerships with national law enforcement agencies, including professional training programs.
• Prepare the FAC for ANAB certification by 2026.
• Oversee the advancement of the new Forensic Anthropology Laboratory set to open in 2025.
• Engage with stakeholders, including law enforcement, academics, students, donors, and the public, to support the FAC’s mission.

Required Qualifications

• Education: PhD in anthropology, biological anthropology, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of professional work experience, with significant forensic casework and forensic anthropology research.
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Diplomate certification by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology (D-ABFA) at the time of appointment.
  • Proven leadership capacity in managing an outdoor research or forensic facility.
  • Demonstrated success in obtaining external grant funding and professional training.
  • Experience collaborating with law enforcement or other governmental agencies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: PhD in a related field with specialization in forensic anthropology or human decomposition studies.
• Experience: Expertise in managing a body or anatomical donation program.
• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Familiarity with laboratory accreditation standards.
  • Expertise in mass disaster recovery, forensic osteology, or human decomposition studies.
  • Strong communication and public speaking skills to engage academic and public audiences.

Work Location

• Knoxville, Tennessee. Position is onsite.

Compensation and Benefits

• UT market range: 16
• Anticipated hiring range: $112,628 to $122,628
• Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
• Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Process:

For full consideration, applicants must electronically submit a letter of interest, resume, and the contact information of three professional references.

About The College/Department/Division

The Forensic Anthropology Center (FAC) at the University of Tennessee is a globally renowned research facility dedicated to advancing forensic science. FAC includes the Anthropology Research Facility (ARF) and the UTK Donated Skeletal Collection, serving as vital resources for forensic research, teaching, and public service. The FAC works closely with law enforcement, governmental agencies, and academic institutions to address societal challenges through innovative research and training.