MacArthur Fellow Unearths Hidden Histories from Ancient Bones and Trash

MacArthur 'Genius' Unearths Surprising Lessons from Ancient Remains New York, NY - Kristina Douglass, a renowned archaeologist at Columbia University, has been awarded an $800,000 MacArthur Fellowship for her groundbreaking research on the co-evolution of human societies and environments in response to climate variability. The prestigious honor recognizes Douglass's innovative approach to understanding the complex relationships between humans and their environment. According to sources close to the MacArthur Foundation, Douglass was at home when she received the call informing her of the award. "I told them I was in my office," she recalled, "but really I was at the kitchen sink, looking as surprised and stunned as I felt. It was a very surreal moment." The 2025 MacArthur Fellowship is one of the most coveted awards in the field of social sciences. Douglass's research focuses on the island nation of Madagascar, which she describes as "the most amazing landscape I've ever been in." Her team has spent years excavating ancient sites and collecting data on the remnants of past human societies. The findings have shed new light on how humans adapted to climate change in the distant past. "We're not just looking at bones and artifacts," Douglass explained. "We're trying to understand the complex systems that governed human behavior in response to environmental pressures." Her research has significant implications for contemporary issues such as climate resilience, sustainable development, and cultural preservation. The MacArthur Fellowship is a testament to Douglass's dedication to her work and her commitment to advancing our understanding of human societies. "This award is not just an honor for me," she said. "It's also a recognition of the incredible team I've had the privilege to work with." Douglass's research has far-reaching implications for communities around the world. Her findings can inform policies aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change and promoting sustainable development. As she continues her work, Douglass remains committed to sharing her discoveries with the public. The MacArthur Foundation has a long history of supporting innovative research in the social sciences. The 2025 Fellowship is one of several awards given this year to recognize outstanding contributions to the field. With this prestigious honor, Kristina Douglass joins an elite group of researchers who have made significant contributions to our understanding of human societies. As for what's next, Douglass plans to continue her research in Madagascar and expand her team's work to other regions. "We're just getting started," she said. "There's still so much to learn about the complex relationships between humans and their environment." *Reporting by Npr.*