Dr. Purtill's research is interdisciplinary and incorporates a diverse blend of archaeology, geomorphology, hydrology, geology, geochemistry, and pedology. His primary research focuses on various aspects of Quaternary geology, soil geomorphology, and geoarchaeology. Geoarchaeology includes methods and theories developed in Earth sciences to resolve archaeological questions related to human settlement and land-use behavior, landform and site development, paleoenvironmental reconstructions, and more. He recently has become involved in stream restoration monitoring and measurement; as well as aspects of landslide/erosion mapping and prediction.

For more about Dr. Purtill's reseach and links to many of his articles and presentations, please visit his researchgate and academia.edu pages

When not researching or teaching, he is an avid sports fan (go Cleveland Browns, Cavs, and Indians; Go Mountaineers), animal lover, and plays guitar relatively well