Michael Callaghan

Michael Callaghan is an Associate Professor in the Anthropology Department at the University of Central Florida. His research focuses on Pre-Columbian Mesoamerican societies, particularly the ancient Maya, with an emphasis on ceramic analysis to understand social complexity and changes in social structure.

Education:

• BS, Vanderbilt University, 1998
• PhD, Vanderbilt University, 2008

Dr. Callaghan specializes in Maya Archaeology and Ceramic Analysis. His research examines craft production, trade and exchange, economy, ritual, gender in archaeology, and ethics in archaeology. He investigates how technology and production contribute to changes in social structure in ancient Mesoamerican societies. His work also extends to the anthropology of Walt Disney World Theme Parks and archaeological pseudo-science, with publications in journals including Ancient Mesoamerica and Latin American Antiquity.

Scientific Awards:

• Founders' Day Award (2024)

Dr. Callaghan directs post-doctoral scholars, PhD students, and undergraduate honors students. He teaches courses in general anthropology, ceramic analysis, ethics, and gender in archaeology. He has secured over $1 million in research grants from PACUNAM, the National Science Foundation, National Geographic Society, and the University of Central Florida.

He co-directs the UCF El Mirador LiDAR Project for mapping cultural features in Guatemala's Mirador region using Light Detection and Ranging technology, and previously co-directed the Holtun Archaeological Project investigating social inequality through crafted objects and monumental architecture.