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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

Education and Interpretation

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

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

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

[Closed] OSA is Hiring: Research Archaeologist

Thursday, March 14, 2024
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Events

A Community-inspired (and Energized) Mastodon Excavation in Southern Iowa promotional image

A Community-inspired (and Energized) Mastodon Excavation in Southern Iowa

Tuesday, January 28, 2025 7:30pm
Deere Wiman Carriage House
Join State Archaeologist John Doershuk as he presents on the Wayne County Mastodon at the monthly meeting of the Quad Cities Archaeological Society. This program is free and open to the public.
Ice Age Iowa promotional image

Ice Age Iowa

Tuesday, March 25, 2025 10:00am
The Knights of Columbus Hall
Join the OSA for a program on Ice Age Iowa, sponsored by the Ottumwa Public Library, March 25, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall.
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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