What Do Biological Anthropologists Do?
Biological anthropologists combine social science with biology to examine the physical characteristics of people along with their cultural patterns. Another name for a biological anthropologist is a physical anthropologist. Studies may focus on human genetics, primate behavior, law enforcement forensics or a combination of areas. A biological anthropologist may conduct field research or laboratory research.
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Laboratory Research
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Biological anthropologists may examine skeletal remains to determine what the person's diet was, whether he suffered any injuries or major illnesses during his lifetime, or the age at which he met his death. If genetic material can be extracted, research may extend to establishing the specimen's ancestry or his relationship to other remains found. The DNA of bacteria found with the skeleton may also yield information on how the organisms have evolved.
Field Research
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Field research may involve travel to remote locations, sometimes requiring the anthropologist to live in primitive conditions. However, field research may also be conducted at wildlife preserves or zoos. Researchers may observe indigenous populations to learn about their social organization and beliefs, or they may focus on primates, such as chimpanzees and gorillas.
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Forensics
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When a law enforcement agency discovers skeletal remains, questions must be answered. It is important to ascertain when the person died, and, if the person was recently alive, the gender, age, cause of death and physical characteristics of the deceased. Biological anthropologists may shed light on whether the agency has a crime scene or a historic site.
Museums
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Biological anthropologists may work in natural history museums as either consultants or full-time staff members. Exhibits may need to be cleaned and prepared, or the anthropologist may design a diorama depicting the typical appearance and activities of an ancient human ancestor. The anthropologist may also be responsible for ensuring that all specimens receive the proper environmental controls.
Education
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According to O-Net Online, a postsecondary degree is necessary for this occupation. Among all anthropologists, 57 percent have their Master's degrees and 43 percent hold doctorates. Although the exact requirements vary by school, Drew University requires 64 credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree to earn a master's degree. Courses include biology, chemistry, anthropology and statistics.
Salaries
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' report for May 2010, anthropologists and archaeologists earned an average of $58,040 annually. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned no more than $31,310, and the best-paid 10 percent earned $89,440 or more.
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