John Verano

John Verano is a Professor of Anthropology at Tulane University's School of Liberal Arts, specializing in Bioarchaeology and Paleopathology. He has conducted extensive fieldwork in Peru, focusing on pre-Hispanic societies, human sacrifice rituals, and disease patterns. His research integrates osteological analysis, genetic studies, and archaeological data to understand ancient populations' lifeways and cultural practices.

Education

• Ph.D., University of California-Los Angeles (1987)
• M.A., University of California-Los Angeles (1980)
• B.A., Stanford University (1977)

Research Interests

Dr. Verano's work spans Bioarchaeology and Paleopathology in Andean South America, with a focus on ritual violence, health disparities, and disease ecology in pre-Columbian and early colonial contexts. His recent projects include analysis of mass sacrifice sites like Huanchaquito-Las Llamas and Marcajirca, as well as interdisciplinary studies of mummies and ancient DNA.

Key Awards & Grants

• Carol Lavin Bernick Faculty Grant (2017–2023)
• Fulbright Lecturer (Peru, 1989 and 1996)
• Multiple National Geographic Society grants
• Dumbarton Oaks Fellowship (2006–2007)

Advising & Fieldwork

Supervised 6 doctoral dissertations in the past five years. Leads fieldwork projects in Peru, including osteological analysis at Marcajirca and excavations at the Pyramids of Moche. Collaborates with institutions like the San Diego Museum of Man and Dumbarton Oaks.

Labs & Collaborations

Co-director of excavations at Platform III, Pyramids of Moche, and involved in the Cuban Mummy Project. Active in international bioarchaeological networks, including the Stone Center for Latin American Studies at Tulane.