Rick W. A. Smith

Rick W. A. Smith is a Professor of Biological Anthropology at George Mason University's Department of Sociology and Anthropology, affiliated with the Women and Gender Studies program and director of the Science and Society Research Hub within the Center for Social Science Research. His work integrates genomics, ancient DNA analysis, and Science and Technology Studies (STS) to explore colonialism, identity, and health disparities.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Anthropology, University of Texas at Austin (2017)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Neukom Institute for Computational Science, Dartmouth College (2017–2020)
• M.A. Anthropology, University of Texas at Austin (2013)
• B.S. Biology, Abilene Christian University (2004)

Research interests focus on molecular anthropology, including ancient DNA's role in understanding migration, colonialism, and Indigenous sovereignty. He critiques scientific objectivity through queer and decolonial frameworks, emphasizing ethical data practices. His work on racial health disparities bridges epigenetics and social determinants, while his archaeological studies use isotopic and genomic methods to reconstruct ancient lifeways.

Publications span high-impact journals like Nature and Current Anthropology, focusing on topics like Maya mobility, colonial agency, and Indigenous data sovereignty. Media engagements address public misconceptions in genomics and anthropology.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Science and Society Research Hub, collaborating on interdisciplinary projects at the intersection of science, ethics, and society.