John M. Marston

John M. Marston is a Professor of Archaeology and Anthropology and Director of the Archaeology Program at Boston University. His research bridges environmental archaeology, sustainability science, and ecological theory, focusing on agricultural decision-making in the Mediterranean, Near East, and central Asia. He directs field projects at Kerkenes (Turkey), Gordion (Turkey), and Tel Shimron (Israel).

Marston specializes in paleoethnobotany, using plant and animal remains to reconstruct ancient land-use strategies. His interdisciplinary collaborations examine climate change adaptation across time, linking archaeological science with modern sustainability challenges. Key methods include wood charcoal analysis and phytolith studies.

His recent publications (2024–2022) analyze land use mapping, crop introductions in Anatolia, and urban agricultural systems in the Islamic Levant. Research spans from the Neolithic period to the Early Islamic era, covering topics like woodland ecology, water management, and elite feasting practices.

Scientific Awards:

• US National Science Foundation
• Council of American Overseas Research Centers
• American Philosophical Society
• American Research Institute in Turkey
• US-Australia Fulbright Commission
• Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada
• Loeb Classical Library Foundation

Marston mentors students in archaeobotanical analysis, climate adaptation studies, and interdisciplinary methodologies, with funded projects at Kaymakçı (Turkey), Tel Megiddo (Israel), and Kom K (Egypt). He organizes workshops on charcoal identification and environmental archaeology networks.