Lisa C. Young

Lisa C. Young is a Lecturer IV in Anthropology and Intermittent Lecturer at the Residential College, University of Michigan, with a concurrent role as Research Affiliate at the Museum of Anthropological Archaeology. Her research focuses on small-scale farming communities in North America, particularly the Homol’ovi area of northeastern Arizona, emphasizing archaeological remains and engagement with descendant communities like the Hopi Tribe. She explores ceramic exchange networks, prehistoric settlement patterns, and the intersection of archaeology with public and Indigenous communities. Key projects include reconnecting Hopi farmers with museum plant collections via digital archives and collaborative fieldwork. Her work bridges academic research with practical applications in cultural heritage preservation and public outreach.

Research interests include Southwestern Archaeology, ceramic analysis, and the dynamics of pithouse-to-pueblo transitions. She has authored/co-edited volumes such as Southwestern Pithouse Communities, A.D. 200-900 (2012) and contributed to studies on Homol’ovi’s social networks and ceramic repair practices. Her teaching includes courses on museum anthropology and archaeological ethics.

Notable collaborations involve the Homol’ovi Research Program and partnerships with tribal communities, emphasizing ethical engagement and knowledge-sharing. Her publications span ceramic studies, community archaeology, and public education initiatives.