Applied Anthropology
Applied anthropology is the application of anthropological data, theory and methods to identify, assess, and solve contemporary social problems or concerns (Kottak, 2008). Applied anthropology often embraces a research topic generated by a specific community and includes collaboration but also advocacy.
Drs. Shimelis Beyene and Mary Willis conduct applied research among East African pastoralist populations in Ethiopia and Nebraska respectively. Both are members of the Society for Applied Anthropology.
Dr. Beyene's research examines traditional agricultural systems and their resurgence as climatic conditions force a reevaluation of development schemes within the Awash National Park, Ethiopia. This work has involved observation of agricultural methodologies as well as community-based training, discussion and support to reinvigorate traditional systems that can be sustained through time.
Dr. Willis' research involves an examination of Sudan's Dinka and Nuer as they transition to the United States. Dr. Willis designed a dental restoration and health program to address what refugees described as the most important aspect of health care in their effort to resettle. As a result of that work, she now conducts research into cross-cultural training for the health professions and contributes to legal cases that concern the forced movement from one culture to another.
Recent Graduates in Biological Anthropology
Michaela Clemens (MA 2007) is currently the Project Director for the Tema Eye Survey (TES) in Tema, Ghana. TES is an epidemiological study examining the prevalence of eye diseases in this region of West Africa. The project is funded by International Aid and the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami.
