Greg Nelson

Greg Nelson is a Courtesy Research Associate and Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Oregon, within the College of Arts and Sciences. His research is deeply rooted in biological anthropology, focusing on human skeletal remains from prehistoric contexts.

His primary research interests include dental anthropology, skeletal biology, bioarchaeology, paleoanthropology, and evolutionary theory. He investigates human biological variation, adaptation, and population history through the analysis of ancient skeletal series.

Dr. Nelson is currently conducting research on prehistoric skeletal collections from two key regions: the Pueblo III Gallina phase (1100–1275 AD) in New Mexico and the early cemetery site of Chelechol ra Orrak in Palau (circa 3000 BP). In New Mexico, he collaborates with Tony Largaespada at the Cañada Simon I site to explore Gallina origins, cultural fate, and environmental adaptation. In Palau, working with Scott Fitzpatrick of North Carolina State University, he studies the biological affinities of the earliest inhabitants of Oceania and their relationships to other Pacific populations.

His work contributes to broader understandings of human dispersal, adaptation, and biological evolution in prehistoric times. Though no publications or awards are listed, his active fieldwork and collaborations indicate ongoing scholarly engagement.

Education:

• B.A., UC Berkeley, 1981
• M.A., University of Montana, 1989
• Ph.D., University of Oregon, 1998

Scientific Awards:

• No awards listed

Dr. Nelson advises no students listed in the provided text and is involved in interdisciplinary research collaborations, particularly in bioarchaeological fieldwork and skeletal analysis. His role appears to be research-focused and likely part-time, given his courtesy and adjunct designation.