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

Unearth a Story: Ice Age Iowa at Kling Memorial Library in Grundy Center

Tuesday, June 9, 2026 6:30pm

Kling Memorial Library

Cherie Haury-Artz from the University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist will present on Ice Age Iowa for adults (ages 19+) at the Kling Memorial Library in Grundy Center as part of their Unearth a Story summer reading program.

Unearth a Story: Traditional Toys & Games in Polk City

Thursday, June 11, 2026 10:00am

Luana Bank Community Center

Cherie Haury-Artz from the University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist will present on Traditional Toys and Games, an all ages, family-friend program to be held at the Luana Bank Community Room and hosted by the Polk City Library as part of their Unearth a Story summer reading program.

Unearth a Story: Ice Age Iowa at Waukee Public Library

Tuesday, June 30, 2026 6:00pm

Waukee Public Library

Cherie Haury-Artz from the University of Iowa Office of the State Archaeologist will present on Ice Age Iowa for adults (ages 18+) at the Waukee Public Library as part of their Unearth a Story summer reading program.

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Support the OSA

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

Learn More

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Office of the State Archaeologist