Biography:
My experiences working with immigrant communities and in forensic anthropology before beginning my PhD greatly influenced both my academic and personal interests. I have a solid background in human osteology and the social significance of scientific research because of my experience identifying human remains and participating in investigations while volunteering in forensic anthropology at the Office of the Medical Examiner in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. In parallel, I worked with immigrants in the community, guiding them through complicated systems and promoting more inclusive policies. Unexpected intersections between these two paths—one humanitarian, one scientific—led me to my current area of study.
Combining my interest in forensic anthropology with more general social and ethical issues, my PhD project investigates the use of geochemical techniques to trace the origin of indigenous people in Guatemala by analyzing isotopic signatures in hair, teeth, and bone. I am especially curious about this project because this multi-isotope approach not only advances forensic anthropology but also has important humanitarian applications in identifying individuals during crises and understanding regional migration patterns in Central America.
My hobbies are reading, travelling and sports, especially Basketball. All of these help me stay balanced and connect with others.
Qualifications:
- New Mexico State University 2017 – Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology; Bachelor of Arts in Psychology; Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages.
- University of Kent 2022 – Master of Science in Forensic Osteology and Field Recovery Methods (Fulbright Scholarship)
Research Interests:
Anthropology, Forensic Science, Geochemistry, Geology.
Project Title:
Using geochemical techniques to trace the origin of human remains.