The Office of the State Archaeologist

The mission of the Office of the State Archaeologist is to develop, disseminate, and preserve knowledge of Iowa's human past through Midwestern and Plains archaeological research, scientific discovery, public stewardship, service, and education.

FAQ & Common Inquiries

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to some of the Office of the State Archaeologist's most common inquiries.

Artifact Identification

Assistance, guidance, and resources regarding the identification of archaeological artifacts from Iowa.

A student takes notes on an old foundation in the woods

OSA offers statewide public programs, resources, and opportunities for people of all ages to understand and appreciate Iowa’s archaeological heritage and preserve it for the future. We also offer consultation services for exhibits, interpretive media, curricula, and program development.

photo of a student taking notes with a tray of artifacts sorted in front of her

Volunteer, Intern, Learn

Learn about volunteer, internship, or student research opportunities at the OSA.

An aerial photo of a large excavation block with archaeological tools scattered about

32,000 +

archaeological sites as of FY24

ancient pottery vessels displayed on a shelf

300 +

infrastructure projects
completed annually

A man in a neon yellow shirt digging a hole in a field

4 Million +

Objects in Curation

News

2026 Society for American Archaeology’s Outstanding Public Archaeology Initiative Award Recipient

Thursday, February 12, 2026

University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist

Megaphone and speech bubble that says "We're Hiring!" against a gold background

[CLOSED] OSA is Hiring: Research Archaeologist

Thursday, January 23, 2025

A tribute to Lance Foster of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist

Events

2026 Iowa Archeological Society Spring Meeting

Saturday, April 18, 2026 8:00am to 2:00pm

Matt Cosgrove River’s Edge Discovery Center

This year’s Iowa Archeological Society annual spring meeting will take place in Fort Dodge at the Matt Cosgrove River’s Edge Discovery Center on April 18, 2026 from 8am-2pm.

Insights into Iowa’s Transportation History with a panel of experts

Friday, May 1, 2026 2:30pm

Ames Public Library

Join Bill Whittaker, Brennan Dolan, Ray Werner, and Libby Wielenga for insights into Iowa’s transportation history—covering pre-settlement roads, early Highway Commission history, the Good Roads Movement, and key innovations. Open to the public and sponsored by the Iowa Department of Transportation in honor of America 250.

View more events

Support the OSA

There are many ways to show your support for the OSA and its nationally-recognized outreach initiatives.

Learn More

Home

Office of the State Archaeologist