James Ahern

James Ahern is a Professor of Biological Anthropology and Vice Provost and Dean of the School of Graduate Education at the University of Wyoming. He holds a B.A. from Beloit College (1991), M.A. from Northern Illinois University (1993), and Ph.D. from the University of Michigan (1998). His research focuses on human biological and biocultural evolution, including the Neandertal-modern human transition in Central Europe and the origins of hominins. Ahern is particularly known for his work in Croatia, leading projects like ARCHAEOLIM to investigate the Late Pleistocene and Early Holocene of the Lim Channel. He has been recognized for his teaching excellence, receiving awards such as the Golden Apple Award and the College of Arts and Sciences Merit Award.

• Roles: Professor, Vice Provost, Dean of Graduate Education
• Education: Beloit College, Northern Illinois University, University of Michigan

Research interests include Paleolithic archaeology, Neandertal studies, and the evolutionary dynamics of early human populations. Key projects involve excavations at sites like Romuald’s Cave and Ljubićeva Pećina, focusing on prehistoric violence, genetic analysis of ancient populations, and cultural transitions. His work integrates archaeological, genetic, and anatomical data to explore human origins and adaptation.

Recent publications highlight studies of mass violence in Copper Age Croatia, genomic analysis of massacre victims, and geophysical surveys of Paleolithic sites. Collaborations with international teams have advanced understanding of European prehistory and human migration patterns.