Biological Anthropology

Based in an evolutionary perspective, biological anthropology is concerned with understanding the past and present evolution and diversity of the human species.

Degrees offered

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About the specialization

This specialization involves participation by faculty members from the departments of Anthropology and Archaeology and Cell Biology and Anatomy with expertise in primatology, skeletal biology, bioarchaeology, human anatomy, comparative anatomy, evolutionary biology, developmental biology, human adaptation and biology, morphometrics, stable isotope analysis, and biomechanics.

The specialization consists of a core of central courses that defines the discipline as well as optional courses in areas of strength and expertise among our faculty.

Associated faculty

John Bertram

John Bertram

Associate Professor, Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy; Director, Gross Anatomy Lab
Research Focus: Comparative biomechanics, locomotion, skeletal biology and scaling

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Susanne Cote

Susanne Cote

Assistant Professor, Department of Anthropology & Archaeology
Research Focus: primate and human evolution, environmental pressures

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Benedikt Hallgrimsson

Benedikt Hallgrimsson

Associate Professor, Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy
Research Focus: the developmental genetic basis for variation in humans and other species

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Steig Johnson

Steig Johnson

Assistant Professor, Department of Anthropology & Archaeology
Research Focus: ecology of several populations of brown lemurs and their hybrids, as well as the effects of anthropogenic disturbance on biodiversity in the rain forest of southeastern Madagascar

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Amanda Melin

Amanda Melin

Assistant Professor, Department of Anthropology & Archaeology
Research focus: foraging behaviour, colour vision, socioecology, dietary selectivity, invertebrate foraging, capuchin monkeys

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Mary Pavelka

Mary Pavelka

Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology & Archaeology
Research Focus: social dynamics of Japanese Macaques, and behavioural ecology of the Belizean black howler monkeys.

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Warren Wilson (Program Director)

Warren Wilson (Program Director)

Associate Professor, Department of Anthropology & Archaeology
Research Focus: adaptation, health, and nutrition of indigenous peoples in the Amazon Basin and the compatibility of biological conservation with human development in the tropics

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What is thesis-based study?

Pursue independent research guided by a supervisor who shares your research interests. If you want to advance your knowledge or expand your expertise in a specific field or research area, our thesis-based programs are for you.

What is a supervisor?

A supervisor is a faculty member who oversees your research and the development of your thesis.


Graduate program contacts

Contact us for any questions you may have about the programs we offer.

Graduate Program Advisor

Ask me about graduate program advising
artsgradsc@ucalgary.ca »

Graduate Program Director

Ask me about graduate degree requirements

Dr. Saulesh Yessenova
403.220.3480
sbyessen@ucalgary.ca »

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