I specialize in forensic anthropology with an emphasis on skeletal variation and methods of the skeletal biological profile. I am broadly interested in the factors affecting variability in the human skeleton, how this variation can be described and quantified effectively, and what it can help us to say about the individuals found in the present and in the past. I also have expertise in forensic archaeology and outdoor crime scene processing.
My current research focuses on the development, validation, and archaeological application of a new adult age-at-death estimation method using a simplified version of the Transition Analysis method (Boldsen et al. 2002) and many binary/ordinal traits throughout the skeleton. I am also working on several outdoor scene processing projects involving the search for clandestine burials and the identification of surface scattered remains using alternate light sources (ALS). Both project have opportunities for undergraduate students. (Schedule an appointment to ask me more!)
I am always happy to talk to undergraduate students who are interested in applying to graduate school or pursuing anthropology or forensic-related careers. I also enjoy swing dancing, hiking, and rock climbing. I am excited to explore my new home in Platteville with my husband and labs - Biscuits and Graysen!
Education
Ph.D.
Anthropology
(2011-2017)
M.S.
Forensic & Biological Anthropology
(2009-2011)
B.S.
Biological Anthropology
(2005-2008)
Penn State University - Dept. of Anthropology
Dissertation: Improved Skeletal Age-at-Death Estimation and its Impact on Archaeological Analyses
Mercyhurst University - Dept. of Applied Forensic Sciences
Master's Thesis: Investigation and Critique of the DiGangi et al. (2009) Age-At-Death Estimation Method
Penn State University - Dept. of Anthropology
Honors Thesis: Investigation of "low-information" skeletal traits in an African American sample.
Professional Positions
Assistant Professor of Forensic Investigation
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Dept. of Criminal Justice
Assistant Professor of Anthropology
Director, ISU Forensic Anthropology Laboratory
Idaho State University
Dept. of Anthropology
Visiting Assistant Professor of Applied Forensic Sciences
Mercyhurst University
Dept. of Applied Forensic Sciences
Postdoctoral Researcher
Penn State University
Dept. of Anthropology
Online Course Instructor
Penn State University
Dept. of Anthropology, Penn State World Campus
Fall 2020+
Fall 2018 - Spring 2020
Fall 2017 - Spring 2018
Spring 2017
Fall 2012 - Summer 2014