Students now have the unique opportunity to study Human Osteology and Field Studies in Kyrgyzstan under the direction of Professors Jeanne McLaughlin and Patrick O’Grady. This month-long summer program provides the unique opportunity for students to master field techniques for recovering human remains in an archaeological context.
This collaborative effort between the Kyrgyz government and the University of Oregon Museum of Natural and Cultural History, GEO, the Central Asian Seismic Institute, the American University in Central Asia, and the International University of Kyrgyzstan endeavors to provide students with a multicultural experience in a region that frequently sees tourists from countries such as Germany and Japan, but not commonly from the United States. Students will complete the program with experience excavating, identifying and evaluating human osteological remains, a rare opportunity for students studying forensic science, biochemistry, geology, human physiology, anthropology, nano-technology and much more.
Ultimately, this program will support the efforts of the Kyrgyz people to protect and manage their cultural heritage sites through Community-Based Cultural Heritage Research and Community-Based Participatory Research. It also ensures that artifacts and valuable historical information are not lost to future generations as more development occurs in the region. Few protections are in place to prevent their destruction as more roads and infrastructure are built in the area.
Given the rural nature of the site, students will be camping when in the field and will also adhere to a rigorous schedule of eight-hour days in the field when not on related excursions. This program also includes an exciting opportunity to attend the World Nomad Games!
Application deadline is April 15, 2018 and priority application deadline is March 15, 2018.