Our archaeological science research uses microscopic and geochemical evidence to investigate relationships among people, plants, animals, soils, and environments. We are particularly interested in agricultural and agro-pastoral land use and the ways human activities shape ecosystems and landscapes over time.

By studying evidence preserved in archaeological soils, sediments, and other materials, we can identify past activities and environmental conditions that are often invisible at the scale of excavation. Combined with landscape and environmental data, these approaches help us connect processes occurring at archaeological sites with broader patterns of land use and landscape change.

Our research spans archaeological and modern contexts, using observations of contemporary plants, soils, and environments to strengthen interpretations of the past and explore long-term human–environment relationships.

Archaeological science is inherently interdisciplinary, and you do not need to be an archaeologist—or plan to become one—to participate. Students from all academic backgrounds are welcome in the lab. Our research draws on approaches from environmental science, ecology, soil science, plant and animal sciences, chemistry, geography, anthropology, and natural resources to investigate interactions among people, organisms, and environments. Students can use archaeological materials to develop broadly applicable experience in laboratory science, microscopy, spectroscopy, sample preparation, data collection and management, quantitative analysis, scientific interpretation, and research design. These skills are transferable to research and careers across the environmental, natural, physical, and social sciences.

Students may become involved through laboratory training, independent research, thesis projects, or collaborative research. Opportunities include:

• • • FTIR spectroscopy: preparing samples, collecting and interpreting spectra, characterizing soils and sediments, and investigating mineral and organic materials;

    • Microscopy: identifying and quantifying phytoliths and dung spherulites and working with modern and archaeological reference materials;

    • Plants, soils, and ecosystems: developing modern comparative datasets that help us understand relationships among vegetation, land use, and soil and sediment records;

    • Data analysis: managing, visualizing, and interpreting laboratory and environmental datasets; and

    • Independent research: developing questions that connect a student's own disciplinary interests with ongoing lab research.

FTIR spectroscopy provides a particularly accessible entry point for students interested in gaining hands-on scientific and research experience. Students can learn sample preparation, instrument operation, quality control, spectral interpretation, and data analysis before progressing toward increasingly independent research.

Students in ecology, plant and animal sciences, chemistry, environmental science, natural resources, geography, anthropology, archaeology, and related fields are encouraged to get involved. Again, prior experience with archaeology or archaeological science is not required. What matters is an interest in using scientific evidence to ask questions about plants, animals, soils, environments, and human land use.