J. Mark Kenoyer

J. Mark Kenoyer is the George F. Dales Jr. and Barbara A. Dales Professor of Anthropology at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, serving also as Associate Chair and Undergraduate Advisor. He joined the faculty in 1985. His research focuses on the archaeology of early urbanism, ancient technologies, and socio-political organization, particularly in South Asia (India, Pakistan, Afghanistan), West Asia, East Asia, and the Mediterranean.

Education: Ph.D., University of California, Berkeley (1983).

Research Interests: Dr. Kenoyer specializes in the Indus Civilization, origins of technology, ancient trade networks, and craft specialization. His work integrates ethnoarchaeological and experimental methods to explore ancient crafts like bead production, metallurgy, and textiles. He has conducted excavations at Harappa since 1986 and led projects in Oman and China. His studies highlight connections between the Indus Valley and Mesopotamia through trade and technology.

Recent Publications: His work emphasizes Indus Valley urbanism, trade networks, and technological innovations. Key themes include maritime trade routes, strontium isotope analyses of human mobility, and symbolism in artifacts like unicorn iconography.

Scientific Awards: Elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (2011).

Teaching & Advising: Teaches courses on archaeology, ancient technology, and prehistoric art. Advises students on archaeological methods and South Asian studies. Active in mentoring through undergraduate and graduate seminars.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Harappa Archaeological Research Project (HARP), collaborating with global institutions on excavations and material analysis. Coordinates interdisciplinary teams using archaeometric techniques for artifact study.