NIU Department of Anthropology

08/27/2026

Many of us have been inspired by National Geographic magazines or shows - but did you know that Northern Illinois University faculty includes seven National Geographic Explorers? These professors have received Nat Geo grants in the past for their fieldwork - and three of them are right here in Anthropology!

DEKALB, IL — From Antarctica and the Galápagos Islands to Madagascar and the Mississippi River, NIU researchers are making discoveries around the world. In doing...

08/26/2026

We're back! So pleased to welcome new and returning MA students last Friday, and to see our undergraduates again in the classroom this week. Let's make it a great year! 📚📚📚👍

08/19/2026

NIU Culture Fest @ MLK Commons! A lot of culture in one place ❤️👍🎶

08/19/2026

This week, the NIU newsroom features Anthropology Professor Mitchell Irwin and Biological Sciences Professor Karen Samonds. They started researching primates and their ecosystems in a remote, unprotected part of Madagascar - and this year their efforts culminated in the creation of a new protected area, co-managed by the Malagasy government, the NGO they created (Sadabe Madagascar) and local communities.
https://newsroom.niu.edu/walking-on-clouds-niu-scientists-realize-dream-of-protecting-high-altitude-rainforest-in-madagascar/ .tab=0

08/19/2026

A great resource for Anthropology jobs, whether you’re looking now or planning for the future!

Your next opportunity could be waiting.

The AAA Job Board features positions from across the field of anthropology, including opportunities in academia, research, nonprofits, government, consulting, and the private sector.

Whether you're looking for your first role, a career change, or your next professional challenge, explore current openings and take the next step in your anthropological journey.

🔗 Browse available positions at https://careercenter.americananthro.org/

08/18/2026

Dr. Leila Porter's research in Bolivia launched this summer - check it out!
https://newsroom.niu.edu/nsf-grant-supports-niu-anthropologists-research-in-rainforests-of-bolivia/ .tab=0

08/15/2026

Today, we are celebrating our curator of collections, Margaret Alway, as she finishes her last day of work at the Pick Museum of Anthropology and prepares to move to Canada to pursue her PhD at the University of Manitoba. Margaret started work with the Department of Anthropology as the NAGPRA Grant Assistant and then transitioned into the Curator of Collections role at the museum once the grant funding ended. The Department and the Museum have benefitted tremendously from her time with us, and we can't say enough good things about working with her. We're going to miss her, but we are also excited for her and know she is going to make a positive change wherever she goes.

Thank you, Margaret Alway! Can't wait to hear about your grad school adventures! 🤩

08/14/2026

08/12/2026

Follow us on Instagram to keep up with Department news and events!
https://www.instagram.com/askanthro

08/12/2026

We love summer AND we're looking forward to welcoming our students back on August 24 - not long now! 😎📚🎉