Spotlight on Researchers in Physical Anthropology

There are many anthropologists working all around the globe. Some work in lab settings, in academic venues, and others conduct field research – some do all three! The subfield of Physical Anthropology can be differentiated into several different focus areas: genetics, primatology, and paleoanthropology. At first these may seem unrelated but once you grasp the way each facet of the discipline illuminates some aspect of the larger discipline, it begins to make more sense.

Before you even have the opportunity to explore the biology behind micro- and macro- approaches to looking at evolutionary processes, or the many different kinds of primates, or what we know about ancient humans and their antecedents – let’s meet some of the people doing the research!

In this exercise, you will have the opportunity to explore one of these working anthropologists – in different areas of concentration. Choose the one you find the most interesting because of their work, their focus, or some other appeal

The Task:

1. Select ONE (1) of the scientists listed below and read/watch the resources provided.
2. Post a brief response (100+ words) identifying which of the fields you are most interested in and why. (10 points)
3. Describe the contributions of your selected scientist to their area of physical anthropology. Include why you think that person’s work makes a difference. (10 points)
4. Suggest another physical anthropologist that might be spotlighted in a future assignment. It’s nice to include researchers from different locales around the world. (10 points)
5. Leave substantive* comments on TWO (2) other student posts – select ones who wrote about different researchers than you selected. Use this as an opportunity to learn what they have to share. (5 points each)

*Substantive comments extend the conversation, ask a question, or offer an observation – strive to create a dialogue. Comments that consist of only praise will be awarded 1/5 points.

Interested in Genetics & Evolutionary Theory?
Read about Rosalind Franklin at: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aso/databank/entries/bofran.html (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
Watch Rosalind Franklin at: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/photo51/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
Listen to Rosalind Franklin at: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/tech/rosalind-franklin-legacy.html (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.

Interested in Primatology & Primate Social Behavior?
Read about Mireya Mayor at: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/explorers/bios/mireya-mayor/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
Watch Mireya Mayor at: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/blogs/secretlife/anthropology/mireya-mayor/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
Listen to Mireya Mayor at: http://www.npr.org/2015/01/03/374655622/trading-pom-poms-for-field-boots-mireya-mayors-big-break (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.

Interested in Paleoanthropology & the Fossil Record?
Read about Zeresenay Alemseged at: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/explorers/bios/zeresenay-alemseged/ (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
Watch Zeresenay Alemseged at: https://www.ted.com/speakers/zeresenay_alemseged (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.

Listen to Zeresenay Alemseged at: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/human-evolution-an-exclusive-interview-with-the-man-who-discovered-the-oldest-child-in-the-world-417335.html (Links to an external site.)

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