My Research Interests

I am currently a Ph.D. Candidate in Anthropology (Archaeology Specialization) at UC Santa Barbara. I hold an M.A. in Anthropology from UC Santa Barbara (2000), as well as a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Arizona (1996).

As an anthropological archaeologist, my research focuses on examining which specific anthropological models best explain human behavioral variation within and between populations. In general, my work is concerned with optimality, decision-making processes, culturally transmitted information and dynamic population-level processes. My research interests include the following: coastal/maritime hunters and gatherers; the emergence of social differentiation by sex, age and status; technological innovation; and Evolutionary Theory.

My analitical skills include flaked & ground stone tool analysis, including obsidian sourcing analysis using Laser-Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry [LA-ICP-MS]; the interpretation of physical and cultural geographic phenomena as recorded by satellite imagery and aerial photography using Geographic Information Systems [GIS]; and the use of Information Technology in higher education.

My geographic areas of interest include southern Argentina (Santa Cruz & Tierra del Fuego Provinces), the central Great Basin (Nevada), and southern California.

Current Activities

• June 2006-May 2007: Collaborate in Wenner-Gren ICRG Funded Project, "High-Latitude Hunter-Gatherers North and South: Variation and Adaptation in the Patagonian and Great Basin Holocene".
• September 2006-June 2007: Conduct National Science Foundation Funded Project, "Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grant: Explaining Ancient Technological Innovation in Southern Argentina", and write up dissertation.

Last Updated: May 23, 2006 5:13 PM Pacific Time