معرفی
Dr. Sophia C. Dent is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Anthropology at Appalachian State University, located in Anne Belk Hall. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2020) and a B.A. from Lehigh University (2013).
Her research focuses on biological anthropology, with two primary themes: (1) reconstructing past populations' food practices through stable isotope analysis and paleomicrobial studies to address modern food sovereignty challenges, and (2) examining skeletal-immune system interactions and nutritional impacts on health across lifespans. She emphasizes community engagement and ethical, minimally destructive methodologies.
Her teaching includes courses like Biological Anthropology, Human Osteology, and Nutritional Anthropology, alongside lab modules such as 'Our Primate Heritage.' Her work bridges bioarchaeology, nutritional ecology, and global health, with publications in American Journal of Human Biology and edited volumes on ancient foodways.
Dr. Dent’s research aligns with Appalachian State’s emphasis on sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration, leveraging osteological, isotopic, and microbial data to explore human adaptation and resilience. She is affiliated with the University’s Department of Anthropology labs and contributes to programs advancing ethical research practices.
