Human Evolution and Virtual Archaeology Laboratory

The Human Evolution and Virtual Archaeology Laboratory (HEVA) at the University of Kentucky’s Department of Anthropology explores the evolutionary history of humanity across the planet over the last million years.

Our work takes place within the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Mid-Scale for Heritage Science, EduceLab. We collaborate regularly across disciplines at the University of Kentucky and beyond.

Human Evolution and Virtual Archaeology Laboratory logo

Research at HEVA

Evolutionary History of Humanity

We address diverse research questions, ranging from the emergence and dispersal of our species in deep time, to the biocultural variation associated with changes in subsistence strategies, habitual economic activities, and kinship patterns in the recent past.

Computational and Quantitative Methods

We are guided by a strong evolutionary theoretical focus and apply a suite of computational and quantitative methods that maximize data acquisition and the preservation and valorization of biocultural heritage.

Transdisciplinary Approach to Anthropology

Today, HEVA collaborates across Departments and Colleges at the University of Kentucky, advocating for a transdisciplinary approach to anthropology that builds on the “four-field” tradition (i.e. archaeology, biology, ethnology, and linguistics) of U.S.-American anthropology.

Philosophy

HEVA aims to provide an inclusive and intellectually stimulating environment founded on a culture of mutual respect, integrity, academic freedom, and dedication to personal and scientific excellence. We prioritize transdisciplinary and community-based participatory research and adhere to FAIR and CARE principles of data management and stewardship, maintaining an outlook that is simultaneously international in scope and locally contextualized in space and time.

History Read more →

Established in 2020, HEVA builds on the century-old natural and applied science foundation of the University of Kentucky’s Department of Anthropology, instituted in 1927 by William S. Webb, a physicist, and William D. Funkhouser, a zoologist. 

Website coordinator: James Keppeler; Logo design: Bruno Athié Teruel; Support: Ricardo Muñoz Torrez