I'm an archaeologist working on farming societies in southern Arizona and the Mediterranean. Recently, I've begun work on the historical archaeology of Minnesota, particularly the spread of Euro-American agricultural communities into this area. I specialize in the analysis of animal bones from archaeological sites and the impact that agricultural societies had on their landscapes. My interests go beyond diet and environment: human interactions with the landscape tell us about prehistoric labor organization, social structure, mobility patterns, and beliefs.
I have a strong interest in ethical considerations in archaeology, particularly the importance of community-based archaeology, Indigenous archaeology, and the decolonization of archaeology. These themes tie my research and teaching into the history of archaeology as well as modern issues of social justice. Teaching and pedagogy are at the heart of my vocation. I occasionally blog, mostly about teaching, at Old Bones.
Fall 2021 Classes
IS 2001H: Honors Traditions
ANTH 2151: Professional Skills in Anthropology
ANTH 4412: Research in Archaeology and Biological Anthropology
Fall 2021 Student Hours
My open hours to meet with students in person in my office are Tuesdays 1-2:30pm. I am also available by Zoom on Wednesdays 9:30-11:00am. You are welcome to drop in (check my Google calendar for the Zoom link) or you can use Google calendar (rdean@morris.umn.edu) if you want to set up an appointment during those hours or another time.
Contact Information
Office: 116D Imholte Hall (New Office!)
Email: rdean@morris.umn.edu (best way to contact me)
Phone: 320 589-7009 (messages frequently lost)