Allison Tumarkin-Deratzian

Dr. Allison Tumarkin-Deratzian is a Professor of Instruction and Undergraduate Advisor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science at Temple University's College of Science and Technology. She holds a B.S. in Geology from Lafayette College (1997) and a Ph.D. in Earth and Environmental Science from the University of Pennsylvania (2003). Her research bridges geology and biology, focusing on vertebrate paleontology, bone microstructure, and taphonomy. She has taught at Temple since 2006, previously serving as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Vassar College and an adjunct instructor in Biodiversity, Earth and Environmental Science at Drexel University.

Her research emphasizes dinosaur ontogeny, fossil preservation, and comparative osteology. Notable projects include studies of ceratopsian dinosaurs, Arctic fossil diagenesis, and bone healing in extinct vertebrates. She has published extensively on topics ranging from microfossil analysis to pathological bone features in modern and fossil specimens.

Dr. Tumarkin-Deratzian designs inclusive field courses and integrates museum collections into teaching. Her work highlights interdisciplinary approaches to understanding vertebrate evolution and paleoenvironments. She actively advises undergraduate students and contributes to STEM education initiatives.