John W. Verano

Dr. John W. Verano is Professor of Anthropology at Tulane University, specializing in bioarchaeology and paleopathology of Andean South America. His work on prehistoric Peru examines trauma, trepanation, warfare, and ritual practices using skeletal analysis. He collaborates on forensic cases and has contributed to high-profile studies of mass sacrifices.

Research includes the Chimú child sacrifices at Huanchaquito-Las Llamas and trepanation techniques in ancient Peru. His interdisciplinary approach combines archaeology, osteology, and isotope analysis to reconstruct lifeways and violence in pre-Columbian societies.