Research Opportunities

As a student at Heidelberg you have the opportunity to take advantage of a multitude of research and learning experiences within the Anthropology Department that are not typically available at the undergraduate level. With an overall student-faculty ratio of 14:1, students have the ability to get to know their professors and explore potential avenues of study outside of the classroom. The study of human cultures, either through cultural or archaeological approaches, requires a holistic approach. This results in interdisciplinary research, allowing students to utilize various science and social science faculty to help guide their inquiries. 

Any student at Heidelberg has the opportunity to conduct research within the Department of Anthropology. Most of our research opportunities are directly a result of archaeological investigations conducted through the Center for Historic and Military Archaeology (CHMA). Additionally, the Archaeological Laboratory has faunal, glass and ceramic comparative collections and cultural assemblages from prehistoric and historic period sites that are also available for study. Independent research projects have included ethnobotanical, lithic glass, shell and ceramic cultural materials. Ongoing research at the Johnson’s Island Civil War Prison site provides ample opportunities for cultural material and historic document research. 

Students can receive funding by applying to the Pepsi Fund Scholarship, enabling them to pursue supported independent research. Through the Annual Student Research Conference, our students have the ability to share their findings with their peers from all over the region.