Caterina Scaramelli

Professor Caterina Scaramelli is making strides in research on the intricate intersections of ecology, scientific expertise, and infrastructure. As a Research Assistant Professor in Earth & Environment at Boston University, she delves deeply into the dynamics of environmental change, particularly within the wetlands, heirloom seeds, and broader ecological landscapes of Turkey, Europe, and the Mediterranean region. Her work is pivotal in understanding how these regions are adapting to and mitigating the impacts of environmental transformations. Affiliated with the Institute for Global Sustainability, Professor Scaramelli employs a rich blend of ethnographic and archival methods to unravel the complex narratives of community responses to environmental challenges. Her research is not only about documenting change but also about understanding the cultural and social dimensions that drive community resilience and adaptation in the face of ecological disruptions. In her teaching, Professor Scaramelli offers a diverse array of courses that cover critical topics such as food, water, culture, and environmentalism, with a particular focus on the Global South. Her courses are designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the socio-environmental issues that are shaping our world today, encouraging them to think critically about sustainability and preservation. Professor Scaramelli's research interests are broad yet interconnected, encompassing themes such as agrobiodiversity loss, the anthropology of environment, and the science of infrastructure. Her work in the Mediterranean and Middle East regions is particularly noteworthy, as it sheds light on the unique environmental and cultural challenges faced by these areas. Through her research and teaching, Professor Scaramelli is contributing significantly to the field of environmental anthropology. Her commitment to exploring the nuances of ecological preservation and sustainability is helping to forge new pathways for understanding and addressing the pressing environmental issues of our time. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also has practical implications for policy and community-based environmental strategies.