Mark Turin

Mark Turin is an Associate Professor of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia, cross-appointed between the Institute for Critical Indigenous Studies and the Department of Anthropology. He is also the Interim Editor of the journal Pacific Affairs and Co-Lead of UBC’s Himalaya Program. His research focuses on language reclamation, revitalization, and documentation, particularly in the Himalayan region and the Pacific Northwest. Turin’s work emphasizes Indigenous methodologies and decolonial practices, with projects like the Digital Himalaya and World Oral Literature initiatives. He has held roles such as Chair of the First Nations and Endangered Languages Program and Acting Co-Director of the Institute for Critical Indigenous Studies. His awards include the UBC Dean of Arts Mentorship Award (2023) and recognition for contributions to open education and scholarship. Turin teaches courses on linguistic anthropology, digital archives, and ethnolinguistics, and collaborates with communities like the Heiltsuk First Nation on language mobilization.

Education: Ph.D., Leiden University (2006); B.A., Cambridge University (1995). He has been affiliated with Yale University, the University of Cambridge, and other institutions globally. Current research includes the Relational Lexicography project, developing community-informed dictionary frameworks, and NASA-funded studies on Himalayan urbanization.

Key projects span digital humanities, policy advising, and interdisciplinary collaborations, including work with the United Nations and Indigenous communities. His publications include books on Thangmi linguistics and Himalayan studies, along with edited volumes on oral literature and language policy.