Skip to main content Skip to navigation
Zooarchaeology Lab | Home

The zooarchaeology reference collection and associated lab facilities are located in College Hall 205, a large lab and workspace designed to facilitate the analysis of skeletal material from archaeological and paleontological contexts.

The Reference Collection

The zooarchaeology lab holds a large collection of modern, paleontological, archaeological and replicated skeletal material. Western North American animals, both coastal and marine, are well represented, along with many other regions of the world. We also have some replica human material and human evolution casts.

Electronic catalogs of these collections are updated regularly and can be accessed upon request. We are more than happy to help you gain access to the materials you need either remotely or on location; please email for more information and to arrange access.

Current Research Projects

Most active research occurring in the lab is being undertaken by Dr. Erin Thornton as part of on-going research into ancient Mesoamerica.

Graduate students working under Dr. Thornton’s supervision also are actively using the collection.

Volunteer Opportunities

From time to time, help with accessioning, organizing and updating the collections is needed. WSU anthropology undergraduates in particular are encouraged to contact Erin Thornton, the lab director, if interested in volunteering your time in the lab.