Matthew Walker Magnani

Matthew Walker Magnani is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology and Climate Change at the University of Maine and serves as Digital Curator at the Sámiid Vuorká-Dávvirat. He holds a Ph.D. (2021) and M.A. (2017) from Harvard University, an M.A. (2014) from the University of Pennsylvania, and a B.A. (2012) from Binghamton University.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Harvard University (2021)
  • M.A., Harvard University (2017)
  • M.A., University of Pennsylvania (2014)
  • B.A., Binghamton University (2012)

His research bridges anthropological archaeology and ethnography, focusing on social inequality through multi-temporal material analysis across Sápmi (Arctic) and Maasailand (East Africa). Key projects explore Indigenous heritage reconnection via digital technologies, pandemic-era face mask production as material culture, and archaeological ethics in contemporary contexts.

Recent publications highlight innovations in photogrammetry, AI applications for archaeological illustration, and community-led digitization of Sámi collections. His work integrates big data approaches with traditional archaeological methods to analyze material culture trends during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

As Digital Curator at the Sámiid Vuorká-Dávvirat, he collaborates on cultural preservation initiatives while maintaining academic roles at the University of Maine. Contact: matthew.magnani@maine.edu