Dongya Yang

Dongya Yang is a Professor in the Department of Archaeology at Simon Fraser University (SFU), Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. He leads a dedicated ancient DNA laboratory focused on interdisciplinary research addressing human-environment interactions through genetic analysis of archaeological remains. His work integrates molecular biology with archaeology and anthropology, emphasizing collaboration with Indigenous communities, especially in the Pacific Northwest.

His educational background includes a BSc in Biology from Lanzhou University, an MSc in Bioanthropology from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and a PhD in Bioanthropology from McMaster University.

Yang’s research interests span ancient DNA techniques, physical anthropology, and environmental bioarchaeology. He focuses on developing robust methods for DNA extraction, contamination control, and species/sex/individual identification from degraded remains. His lab investigates human skeletal populations, ancient diseases, and human interactions with animals and plants such as salmon, herring, turkeys, and domesticates. A central theme is the ethical and critical integration of DNA data with traditional knowledge and archaeological context to avoid overinterpretation.

His recent publications reflect a strong trend in zooarchaeology, Ichthyoarchaeology, and community-engaged science, particularly through high-profile collaborations with the Tsleil-Waututh First Nation on sustainable salmon fisheries. His students’ theses consistently apply ancient DNA to address specific archaeological questions across global regions, from the Pacific Northwest to the Caribbean and China.

While no formal scientific awards are listed, his research has achieved significant public impact, with one study ranked in the 99th percentile of tracked articles by Altmetric.

Yang actively supervises MA and PhD students, serving as primary supervisor, co-supervisor, or committee member. His mentoring philosophy emphasizes both technical rigor in the lab and ethical, reflective thinking outside it. He supports students in developing individualized training plans, especially those bridging archaeology and biology backgrounds. He has trained numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, many of whom have gone on to academic and research careers.

He directs the Dedicated Ancient DNA Facilities at SFU, comprising a contamination-controlled Ancient DNA Lab and a physically separated Post-PCR Lab. These facilities enable high-integrity analysis of human, animal, and plant remains. The lab operates under strict protocols including UV sterilization, positive airflow, and dedicated lab attire to prevent contamination.