MA, Department of Archaeology, Simon Fraser University
Alexa completed her Master of Arts in the Department of Archaeology at Simon Fraser University in 2015. Her thesis, titled “Ancient DNA Research in North America and Abroad: Challenges and Opportunities” explores the potential social, ethical, and political implications of ancient DNA research for Indigenous communities and researchers working around the world. Alexa also holds a B.A. in Archaeology, with a minor in Health Sciences, from Simon Fraser University.
From 2013-2016, Alexa worked as a Research Assistant for the IPinCH Project, tackling administrative tasks, writing articles, creating videos, contributing to several successful grant applications, and assisting with the coordination of multiple conferences and workshops.
In 2015, Alexa took on the role of Research Assistant for the Bioarchaeology, Genetics and IP Working Group. In October 2015, Alexa worked with George Nicholas, Daryl Pullman, Alan Goodman, and Dorothy Lippert to organize an international symposium and workshop, entitled DNA and Indigeneity: The Changing Roles of Genetics in Indigenous Rights, Tribal Belonging, and Repatriation. The event brought together academics, practitioners, student, and community representatives from Canada, the United States, Australia, and Latin America.
Alexa is a co-author on a piece published by the American Anthropological Association promoting the DNA and Indigeneity workshop. Additionally, Alexa has written a blog post on “An Introduction to the Ethics, Politics, and Practicality of Ancient DNA Research in Archaeological Contexts” and was the lead author on the Ancient DNA: What is it? Why is Important? Fact Sheet.
