Myra J Giesen

During my professional career, I have worn many different hats, which has resulted in a diverse skill set. I suppose I am an anthropologist at heart and am intrigued with all that makes us human. I have worked in industry and academia, and have experienced the perceived stereotypes associated with both. I have been a government employee, while valuing and expressing my rights as a member of the public. I am best known for my work related to attitudes and ethics related to the treatment of human remains held in collections, especially related to NAGPRA compliance. During this work, I have lead stakeholder engagement or consultations, conducted skeletal analyses, weighted out evidence for cultural affiliation, worked on management plans, and contributed to the decision-making process. Another of my interests has to do with the long-term protection and interpretation of cultural heritage. I have archaeological field experience, and am a strong advocate of making archaeology and heritage, more generally, accessible. In the past few years, I have embraced a more integrated science-based approach to developing methods and technologies for recording and monitoring heritage assets, such as open-air rock art and stone war memorials. I am a firm believer in the “do what you like like what you do” approach to life.