Biological Anthropology
As biological anthropologists we seek to understand human and non-human primate biological variation across geographic space in an evolutionary framework. We are particularly interested in how the interaction between biology, culture and ecology influence adaptation and health. Our research agendas are complimentary and focus on both national and international populations.
Our core faculty in bioanthropology includes Shimelis Beyene, Dan Osborne and Mary Willis.
Dr. Shimelis Beyene approaches his research from an applied perspective. He has conducted research among pastoral groups and non-human primates in Africa, examining how changes in local ecology effect adaptation. Dr. Beyene has worked on issues of conservation in the Awash National Park for 20 years.
Dr. Dan Osborne's research to date has largely involved skeletal biology. Most recently, he analyzed the influence of diet, activity, and ethnicity on the growth and development of structural geometry at the hip, an important region of the skeleton with regard to the evolution of bipedalism as well as osteoporosis prevention. Dr. Osborne is currently developing a local project examining the effects of nutrition and activity on growth and development.
Dr. Willis conducts applied health research among refugees from Sudan, most notably the Dinka and Nuer. Her current project concerns dental restoration in refugees populations that arrive to the U.S. missing teeth traditionally extracted in childhood. She is interested in dental morphometrics, but also historical as well as contemporary dental practices. Her research focus was generated through community discussions and addresses a topic refugees described as the most important to their wellbeing in the U.S. In addition to the dental research, Dr. Willis investigates other biocultural topics related to refugee cultural transitions, including nutrition, psychological wellbeing, legal systems and media descriptions of refugee populations.
In addition to the core faculty, Pat Draper and Ray Hames' research interests are complimentary to bioanthropological research. Draper recent research has focused on !Kung ageing and well being and Hames has published on Yanomamö growth and development in relation to disease stress and parental investment.
New - Biological Anthropology Lab
See more pictures of our new space here.