Andrew Womack

Andrew Womack is an Assistant Professor of Asian Studies and Anthropology at Furman University. He holds a PhD from Yale University (2017) and previously served as a Visiting Faculty Lecturer at McGill University (2017-19). As Associate Director of the Tao River Archaeological Project (TRAP), he investigates late Neolithic and early Bronze Age societies in northwestern China, focusing on technological, social, and climatic interactions along the proto-Silk Road.

Research Interests: Womack specializes in Chinese archaeology, ceramic analysis, and ancient Eurasian exchange networks. His work combines petrographic analysis, geophysical survey, and excavation to explore how networks of interaction shaped early societies. Key themes include ceramic production practices, mortuary rituals, and the role of material culture in mediating social relationships.

Publications: Womack's recent work includes studies on ceramic production at the Shimao citadel, translocal identity construction, and the Majiayao-Qijia cultural transition. His research highlights the importance of local-scale networks in enabling long-distance exchange and cultural adaptation.

Labs/Teams: Core contributor to the Tao River Archaeological Project (TRAP), an international collaboration studying northwestern China's archaeological landscape. His fieldwork includes geophysical surveys and excavations at sites like Qijiaping and Dayatou.