Department Member, CEPAM (Centre d'études Préhistoire, Antiquité, Moyen Âge), CNRS-UMR 6130
Doctor in Anthropology
Thesis Title: Agrarian landscapes and water management in the semi-arid basin of Phoenix, Arizona from prehistoric times to modern day
About
My main research interests focus on the spatial and diachronic reconstruction of landscape dynamics as a result of socio-environmental interactions. I rely on geomorphic, stratigraphic and petrographic studies to reconstruct natural landscapes and evolution, pedology to emphasize phases of environmental stability and their relation to vegetation cover and climate, and paleoclimate reconstruction based on sediment records. This is complemented by the disciplines of geoarchaeology to understand the interaction between natural and anthropic dynamics, and archaeology/history to identify cultural phases and settlement pattern evolution. I have a main interest in fluvial arid contexts (Arizona, Yemen, United Arab Emirates), but I am also familiar with temperate and humid environments such as lakes, rivers, and piedmont areas (France).
In order to reconstruct human-environment interactions my research includes a study of water management systems, artificial systems dependent on agronomical techniques, with a consideration of environmental and fluvial dynamics. A systemic geoarchaeological / micromorphological and paleoecological analysis of canals, ditches and reservoirs sedimentary fills allows for the creation of an environmental typology which I have interpreted from historic and modern references. My research includes an analysis of settlement patterns, cultural adaptation, and the evolution of agricultural techniques. Synchronous and diachronic studies conducted in the Phoenix basin in Arizona have allowed me to undertake a reconstruction of human and environmental interactions for nearly two millennia.
