Amy Thompson

Amy Thompson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography and the Environment at the College of Liberal Arts, The University of Texas at Austin. Her academic focus spans geography, archaeology, and migration studies, with particular expertise on Mesoamerica and ancient Maya civilizations as well as contemporary migration issues.

Education

• Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico

Research Interests

Dr. Thompson's research centers on the intersection of geography and migration, with a focus on vulnerable populations such as migrant children from Central America and Mexico. Her work explores themes of agency, vulnerability, and humanitarian responses in contexts ranging from the US-Mexico border to the Greek island of Lesvos. She also investigates ancient Maya geography and urbanism using modern techniques like Lidar analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).

Publication Trends

Her recent publications (2021-2022) emphasize contemporary migration crises, particularly the treatment of unaccompanied minors and Mexican refugees under US administrations. Earlier works (2010-2016) address educational and linguistic integration of migrant children in Europe, while her oldest publications (2002-2008) examine legal and policy frameworks for child migrants. A notable outlier (2004) delves into microbiology, suggesting interdisciplinary collaboration.