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Who is a Anthropologist?
Anthropology is the most humanistic of sciences and the most scientific of the humanities ~ Alfred L. Kroeber
Do you wonder why living creatures behave in the way they behave or why there are so many languages, cultures and what all our great-great ancestors did during their times? If questions like these tingle your curious brain cells and researching about them is something you like then becoming an anthropologist is a possible career choice for you. Individuals who opt for a career as anthropologists can be termed as researchers who study human language, culture, societies, biological and material remains, and the biology and behaviour of primates.
The Anthropology course consists of four major fields: biological anthropology, cultural anthropology, linguistic anthropology, and archaeology. Each one of them concentrates on different sets of research interests and uses different techniques to interrogate. Biological Anthropologists are interested in the non-cultural aspect of humans and near-humans. Biological anthropology jobs include understanding the mechanism of evolution and genetic inheritance, human variation and adaptations to different environmental stresses. In this article, we will be discussing how to become an Anthropologist, the Anthropologist qualification, is Anthropologist a good career, Anthropologist eligibility and what is the anthropology scope in India.
Anthropologist in a Nutshell
Anthropologists carry out systematic studies of social and political organisation, marriage patterns and kinship systems, subsistence and economic patterns, and religious beliefs of different societies. They carry out their research on understanding phenomena such as the physiology of speech, the structure and function of languages, social and cultural influences on speech and writing, nonverbal communication, how language develops over time, and how they differ from each other. Anthropologists focus their study on the prehistory and history of societies and their cultures.
Quick Facts for Anthropologist
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Suitable for
Male, Female, Others
Individuals can take up a career as anthropologists, it is not gender-specific. Men, women, and others can choose a career as anthropologists. Curiosity pays no attention to gender. Anyone with a deep interest in humans, their language, culture, and societies can become an anthropologist. The history of anthropology is filled with numerous examples of men and women who contributed to this field of science in major proportion. No doubt, an archivist career is suitable for every gender who has an interest to explore different cultures, past and present.
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Any special needs
Yes
Everyone, including those with physical disabilities, is appropriate for individuals who opt for a career as an anthropologist. The career as an anthropologist is well suited to everyone, even those with special needs. One can apply for archivist jobs that are desk-based. Anthropologists are required to work under quite hazardous conditions.
An anthropologist is required to travel to different places as a part of his or her research. The Anthropologist roles and responsibilities can be a little arduous. Hence, it depends on the archivist job position one applies for. However, there are several roles that can be easily accomplished by candidates with special needs.
Table of Contents for Anthropologist
What is the role of Anthropologist?
Individuals who opt for a career as anthropologists do in-depth research on genetic traits to understand human evolution concerning culture, language, social behaviour, eating habits, literature, arts, and music. They answer questions such as how humans adapt to environmental changes, and how homo sapiens evolved from animals. There are many areas in the field of anthropology and hence each work differs within its domain in accordance with the requirement. For instance, sociocultural anthropologists seek to understand the internal logic of societies through ethnography.
Archaeologists and cultural anthropologists retrieve artefacts from the past and place them in context to understand our history and its relevance for today. Biological anthropology jobs are to study human and non-human primates past and present from ecological and evolutionary perspectives, addressing the intersection of behaviours, culture and biology and how these systems impact health and well-being. Anthropologists are interested in knowing why things happen. We usually know how things happen but do we know why? Cultural anthropologists handle big problems such as overpopulation, warfare, and poverty.
Developing processes
Individuals who opt for a career as anthropologists are required to perform various research on their process to search for particular artefacts or any other physical evidence. During this process of research and findings, they are responsible for developing various processes and diagnosing methodologies in order to excel in the scope of anthropology for the particular section. Developing is one of the most crucial parts of their job duties and responsibilities whether it is developing methodologies, procedures, samples, and many more.
Study
One of the most important parts of their job responsibilities includes studying the project they are working on. Individuals who opt for a career as an anthropologist are required to constantly study and remain updated at each and every step of the project.
They are responsible for studying the project, its scope in human development, limitations, efficiency that the project exhibits, and the consequences related to the project. From the beginning to the end of the project, they are required to analyse each and every aspect of the research and ensure the resources utilised in the project are optimised at their best.
Consultation
Anthropologists are required to consult different professionals including other anthropologists in order to meet certain requirements of the project they are working on. For instance, biological anthropologists are required to meet and consult several research scientists working on the same project as them.
The linguistic anthropologists are required to consult translators, language experts and professors in order to gain detailed information regarding the history or evolution of a particular language for a particular section of society. Individuals who opt for a career as anthropologists are also required to interact with other anthropologists specialising in physical anthropology, linguistics, and archaeology.
Training
Another important job duty of an anthropologist involves teaching and guiding students with their interests and research around anthropology. Various anthropologists work as a professor in universities guiding students with the in-depth knowledge and understanding of anthropology as a subject and further its application in career development.
They also teach and train students interested in becoming anthropologists. The anthropology professors teach various subjects such as linguistics anthropology, physical anthropology, archaeological anthropology, and cultural anthropology.
Research work
Research is one of the basic and fundamental job responsibilities of anthropologists. None of their projects can be accomplished without proper conduct of research on the relevant topic. From the beginning to the end of the project, they are required to carry out research at each and every level of the project.
The scope of research starts from the pre-research about the project they will be working on, to its conclusions and after-effects. Anthropology is a broad and interdisciplinary field, which makes it non-negotiable to compromise in research and study, after all, it is the study of humankind.
Publishing
The Anthropologist roles and responsibilities are to conduct research and studying about their projects is one thing but it will not matter if the work done is not published. Publishing comes as an important part of the research and study in anthropology. The anthropologists are responsible for publishing their content related to the research they conduct and the work they do for anthropology and its various fields such as biology, culture, linguistics, and archaeology.
Types of a Anthropologist
Some of the major Anthropologist career options or types of an Anthropologist list is given below:
Biological Anthropologist: Biological anthropology is defined as the study of humans and non-human primates on their biological, evolutionary, and demographic dimensions. Biological anthropologist jobs mainly focus on the biological and social factors that have affected the evolution of humans and other primates and then generate, maintain, and change contemporary genetic and physiological variation.
Socio-Cultural Anthropologist: Socio-cultural anthropology is a merged study of social anthropology along with cultural anthropology. Cultural anthropologists manifold procedures in which people make sense of the world around them, whereas social anthropology is the study of relationships among individuals and groups.
Linguistic Anthropologist: Linguistic anthropologist studies human communications, verbal and nonverbal communication, variations in language across time and space, the social uses of language, and the relationship between language and culture.
Archaeologist: Archaeological anthropologist studies the human past through its material remains. These archivists work involves examining archaeological material remains in order to deduce patterns of past human behaviour and cultural practices. An Archaeologist analyses the reasons behind major changes that have occurred in certain cultures and societies. In a career as an archaeologist, I try to figure out the reasons why ancient man gradually stopped hunting and started farming and what may have prompted them to build cities and trade channels. Read further to know about how to become an Anthropologist and a career in anthropology in India.
What is the workplace/work environment of Anthropologist like?
The work of anthropologists depends on the specific job. Although most anthropologists work in offices, some collect and analyse samples in laboratories or work in the field. Archaeologists often work for cultural resource management firms. Individuals who opt for a career as an archivist or anthropologist often do fieldwork, either in the United States or in foreign countries.
During fieldwork, cultural anthropologists are expected to live with the people they study to know about their culture. The roles and responsibilities of archivists can involve irregular or sturdy living conditions and demanding physical exertion. Business anthropologists also work in museums, historical sites and government agencies.
Does Anthropologist require travelling?
Likely
When doing fieldwork, anthropologists may be required to travel and work for several irregular hours, including evenings and weekends. Individuals who opt for a career as an anthropologist may travel around the world to uncover artefacts to aid in their research.
Employment Shifts
Full Time, Part Time
Archivists who work independently work according to their own timings as they do not have fixed work hours. Whereas, full-time business anthropologists work eight to nine hours a day with weekends off. Some cultural anthropologists also work on an hourly basis or work from home. Individuals who opt for a career as anthropologists are usually consultants or work on a freelance basis.
Employment Nature
Contractual, Permanent
The nature of the employment of an anthropologist can be either contractual if he or she is working on a freelance, hourly or part-time basis. Those working full-time have permanent employment as archivists.
Work Place
Office
Depending upon the type of work, anthropologists work either in offices, universities, or on-field. Business anthropologists usually work the regular nine-to-five shift or eight hours. Work hours can increase depending on the nature of the work or the project. If there is a deadline to be met for a company, anthropologists sometimes work extra hours. Individuals who opt for a career as an anthropologist work overtime, depending upon the roles and responsibilities they are required to work for.
Presence in Geographical Area
Urban, Rural, Semi-urban
In India, there are many opportunities that anthropology students can choose from. The major job profile for anthropologists is teaching in educational institutes which are located in almost every tier-2 and tier-3 city in India. The other option for archivists is to make it to organisations such as art galleries, curators, publishing houses, NGOs, archives, museums, libraries, etc which can also be found in almost every city in India.
Time Pressure
Likely
Although most anthropologists work in offices, some collect and analyse samples in laboratories or work in the field. Business anthropologists who work in fields or outdoors are more likely to face time pressure because of factors such as traveling discrepancies, or weather conditions.
Overtime Details
Generally, anthropologists work according to their time schedule. However, if there is a deadline to be met for a company, anthropologists sometimes work extra hours. Individuals who opt for a career as an anthropologist work overtime, depending upon the roles and responsibilities they are required to fulfil.
Weekly Hours of Work
Min 45 Hours
Anthropologists usually work the regular nine-to-five shift or eight hours. Work hours can increase depending on the nature of the work or the project. If there is a deadline to be met for a company, anthropologists sometimes work extra hours. Individuals who opt for a career as anthropologists work overtime, depending upon the roles and responsibilities they are required to work for.
How to become a Anthropologist?
Steps to become a Anthropologist
If you are interested in the study of the origin, development, culture, societies, and behaviour of humans and want to learn about the past as well as the present of human being's physical characteristics in various parts of the world, then a career as an Anthropologist is the best career option for you. Below, we have listed the steps for how to become an Anthropologist.
What are the skills and qualities required to become a/an Anthropologist?
When it comes to how to become an anthropologist, the first thing that they should know about anthropologist skills are required to become an anthropologist. Some of the essential skills we have mentioned below.
Curiosity: Curiosity is one of the most crucial skills required for candidates to excel as an anthropologist. There are various sections of human society that work towards the evolution of human races ranging from socio-cultural factors to economic, and biological factors. In order to understand and conquer the research in the relevant field, it is important for archivists to be curious enough to know and understand a certain factor responsible for the development of mankind. One must possess the curiosity to understand different cultures and diversity.
Vision: Anthropologists should possess a wide perspective of the inscrutable world of variation. Individuals who opt for a career as anthropologists are required to conduct various research across a wide range of anthropological topics. Anthropology careers are required to have a wide perspective in order to ensure the efficiency of the project and the various sectors its scope works on. They must be able to visualise various conclusions available for a particular project in order to decide whether to go about a particular project or not.
Communication skills: Individuals who opt for a career as an anthropologist are expected to showcase strong communication skills as their main objective is to study the human race and deliver their perspective to the world. Anthropology careers are required to conduct research and complete projects. In order to complete their research and study effectively, they are required to talk to and consult various professionals from different fields such as scientists, librarians, professors and many more. Hence, effective communication becomes an inevitable part of the research.
Thirst for knowledge: The thirst for knowledge will allow the company to adapt to the updates and improvements situations more quickly than its competitors. One should stay updated about current world issues related to everyday life experiences in different places by different people, should be familiar with people of different communities which makes it easy to research about them, and should engage in culture comparison.
Persistent: As an anthropologist, one must be persistent towards the research work that they are working on. The time and resources required for a particular project can be vaguely identified but is still uncertain. There are various projects that take much more time and resources than predicted. In situations like these, it is important for anthropologists to remain persistent and patient enough to conduct the research properly. Read further to know about how to become an anthropologist or anthropologist jobs.
Which certifications and internships can be helpful in becoming Anthropologist?
We have provided below several certification courses that aspiring individuals may opt to upgrade their skills and knowledge for an anthropologist or related roles.
| Why Religion Matters: Religious Literacy, Culture and Diversity | Culture and Tourism |
| Cultural Heritage in Transformation | Intercultural Communication |
Internship Availability
There are numerous local, regional, national, and international internship opportunities available to undergraduate students of anthropology. Depending upon the type of internship the student gets, the roles and responsibilities differ for every profile. Individuals who opt for a career as an anthropologist analyse samples and study them according to the demand and requirement. Anthropology careers such as archaeologists, archivists and anthropologists are required to carry out research on particular topics, working on the analysis of the data collected.
As far as anthropologist salary in India is concerned, it is extremely low for interns. If at all remuneration depends on the organisation they are working for. If it is a big organisation, there will be some kind of remuneration. But in most cases, interns are required to work for free in order to gain experience in the industry and its understanding. There are several archivist jobs in anthropology with a bachelor's degree.
What is the job outlook for Anthropologist?
Anthropological Survey of India is a recruiter for anthropologists in the country both at the centre and at the state levels as well. There are many government research institutes that employ anthropologists in India. One can also choose the option to make it to organisations such as WHO, UNESCO and UNICEF. Sectors such as art galleries, curators, publishing houses, NGOs, archives, museums, libraries and several other places. are also options where one can think of starting to work. It is expected that there will be continued growth in the number of these non-academic jobs.
The most common profession for Anthropologists is a teacher or researcher. Government organisations like the Archaeological Survey of India, the Planning Commission, and International Organisations such as the United Nations UNESCO or UNICEF hire anthropologists for research. Candidates start anthropology careers right from their college academic sessions. There are several universities and colleges that offer students the opportunity to work as research assistants with their professors. The employment of anthropologists is expected average in comparison to other careers. Scroll down to read more about how to become an Anthropologist.
Frequently Asked Questions for Anthropologist
Que. What does an Anthropologist do on a daily basis?
Ans.Depending on the field a person chooses, anthropologists research the social behaviour of a certain community and how it is different from others, they also study artefacts and interpret how human beings lived during a particular time. They also work as linguists and study how languages were developed in certain societies. Sometimes anthropologists also assist police and medical examiners by studying human remains in identifying the cause of death.
Que. What hours do Anthropologists work?
Ans.Anthropologists who work in the field do not limit to the usual 9 to 5 a.m. as they require to travel and explore more. Many anthropologists work full-time in classrooms, universities and offices and do not work beyond the prescribed number of hours.
Que. Where do Anthropologists work?
Ans.Depending on the kind of job they are assigned, they work in large corporations such as Intel and GM or study primates in Africa. They also work in deserts, cities, schools, and even underwater archaeological sites.
Que. What jobs can you get with a degree in anthropology?
Ans.The job options available for anthropology students are Attorney, Diversity officer, Foreign language teacher, Foreign Service officer, Human Resource Manager, International non-profit administrator and Interpreter or Translator.
Que. Is there a demand for anthropologists?
Ans.Employment of anthropologists and archaeologists is projected to grow 10 per cent from 2018 to 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
Que. How long does it take to become an anthropologist?
Ans.To become an anthropologist, it will take four years to complete a bachelor's degree and if you are pursuing a master's degree as well it will take more than two years.
Que. What qualifications do I need to study anthropology?
Ans.The qualification that is required to study anthropology is 10+2 (Science stream) with a minimum of 50 per cent of marks from a recognised board.
Que. Is anthropologist a good career in India?
Ans.Yes, an anthropologist is a good career in India as it is in high demand and a rewarding career. You can work in academia, social services, research institutions, government agencies, non-profit organisations, cultural heritage management, public health, and international development.
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Did you know?
Fact 1
TN Pandit, an anthropologist, was the first person who entered the isolated Sentinel Island with his team in 1967.
Fact 2
Without agriculture beginning about 10,000 years ago the global population of humans would probably be closer to half a million right now.
Fact 3
Approximately six million years ago, the ancestors of humans and the ancestors of chimpanzees regularly interbred.
Fact 4
Subsaharan Africa contains most of the genetic diversity in the human race. Outside of Africa, we are all pretty much inbred.
Fact 5
Humans survived for hundreds of thousands of years without any government or written records, and only minimal economic specialization.
