Esteban Rangel

PhD
Anthropology

Research Title : Establishing Research Access and Curatorial Collaboration for Biological Distance Studies in Mexico

This pilot project is a preliminary research trip to establish institutional access and curatorial collaborations for a biological distance study of Mexica migration during the Postclassic period in Mesoamerica. The broader study will combine cranial and dental trait analyses to assess the relatedness among individuals, using non-destructive methods to trace the origins and migration routes of the Mexica. This trip includes meetings with Mexican researchers and collection managers to clarify access protocols and evaluate the relevance of available skeletal collections. Engaging stakeholders early is essential to ensure their input is incorporated and to lay the groundwork for collaborative, ethical research.