Jason Theuer is a Ph.D. candidate at SMU whose work focuses on the American Southwest. His dissertation research focuses on the dynamics of migration and identity in the 14th century Pueblo world through geochemical analysis of glaze-painted pottery. He served as head Archaeologist for Petrified Forest National Park from 2007-2011 when he left the position to finish his dissertation. His interest in preservation started while working as a carpenter restoring 18th century New England Whaling Era homes, which translated into positions with the National Park Service preserving both historic buildings and archaeological ruins. His research interests include migration, village formation, identity, and traditional knowledge. His time at Petrified Forest NP and collaborations with traditional elders from the communities of Hopi and Zuni are leading him to look for ways to incorporate traditional knowledge into reconstructing past settlement patterns and engaging Native American youths and traditional elders in public land management practices.
Contact Information:
Phone: (972) 832-9238
Email: jtheuer@smu.edu
Entered program in 2002
Region of Study:
North American Southwest