FAQs

1. What do Anthropologists in the National Park Service do?

Cultural anthropologists connect people to parks in distinct and multiple ways. Our job is to help park managers and present-day cultural communities share knowledge for informed park planning. Anthropologists work with native and other local communities who have special relationships with national parks in all areas of the country.

2. How do I find information about completed anthropological work in the National Park Service?

Completed anthropological (or ethnographic) research may be found on individual park websites or by contacting the appropriate regional anthropologist. Some ethnographic research is sensitive in nature and may not be available to a general audience. You may also search for completed ethnographic reports and articles on IRMA (Integrated Resource Management Applications) or ETIC (Electronic Technical Information Center).

3. I’m an anthropologist or student - how do I work with you?

The National Park Service Cultural Anthropology Program includes NPS anthropologists in parks, regional offices and the national office in Washington DC. We frequently work with student internship programs that provide practical research or applied anthropological field work experience. We also work with anthropologists in universities throughout the country on applied ethnographic research projects. Internship or research opportunities are funded by the NPS and coordinated through several partners:

• CESU (Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Units) Network links educational institutions with NPS research projects – see if your university is part of the network.
• NCPE (National Council for Preservation Education) Internships with the NPS are announced twice a year – for the summer and for the academic year.
• SCA (Student Conservation Association) internships may provide a variety of opportunities for students.
• USAJOBS is the Federal employment website. Be sure to check the "Students and Recent Graduates" section for special opportunities.

You may also find local opportunities by contacting the regional anthropologist in your area.