Susan Lappan

Dr. Susan Lappan is a Professor in the Department of Anthropology at Appalachian State University. Her research focuses on biological anthropology, primate behavior, ecology, and conservation biology, particularly in small apes such as gibbons in Indonesia and Malaysia. She has conducted long-term field studies on siamangs in Sumatra and Javan gibbons in Java, collaborating with institutions like Universitas Indonesia and Ewha Womans University. Her work emphasizes understanding primate social structures, reproductive strategies, and habitat conservation.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Anthropology, New York University, 2005
• M.A. in Anthropology, New York University, 1999
• B.A. in Anthropology, Duke University, 1989

Research Interests:

Dr. Lappan investigates the interplay between habitat characteristics, social organization, and reproductive strategies in nonhuman primates. Her studies on gibbons explore topics such as mating systems (e.g., polyandry), infant care, dispersal patterns, and floral foraging. A key focus is applying ecological and behavioral data to primate conservation efforts.

Publications:

Her research has been published in journals like Behaviour, American Journal of Primatology, and Behavioral Ecology and Sociobiology. Notable contributions include studies on siamang social dynamics and Javan gibbon ecology, with a 2009 edited volume highlighting gibbon socioecology.

Grants/Advising:

While specific grants or advisees are not listed, her research collaborations involve international partnerships and fieldwork in protected areas like Gunung Halimun-Salak National Park and Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park. Her work directly contributes to primate habitat preservation initiatives.

Labs/Teams:

Collaborates with global institutions, including the Wildlife Conservation Society-Indonesia Program and Ewha Womans University, to conduct field research and conservation projects focused on gibbon populations.