Pauline Wiessner

Pauline Wiessner is a Research Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Utah, where she has held appointments since 2016. Previously, she served as a Professor (Lecturer) from 2000–2004 and as Distinguished Professor from 2015–2016. Her work focuses on cultural and social anthropology, particularly in the context of customary law, legal pluralism, and conflict resolution.

Her research spans decades and has been recognized with prestigious awards, including election to the National Academy of Sciences and a Distinguished Scholarly and Creative Research Award. She is fluent in multiple languages, including German, French, Vietnamese, Khoisan languages, Danish, and Papuan languages, which support her fieldwork in Papua New Guinea.

• Grants:
  • National Science Foundation: Developing Customary Law and Legal Pluralism among the Enga of Papua New Guinea (2024–2027)
  • National Science Foundation: Impact of Warfare on Night Activities and Sleep among the Enga (2023–2024)
  • Restorative Justice among the Enga (2019–2024)

Scientific Awards:

• Distinguished Professor, University of Utah (2015)
• Elected Member, National Academy of Sciences (2014)
• Wings World Quest, Women of Discovery Fellow (2011)
• Distinguished Scholarly and Creative Research Award, University of Utah (2009)