Courtney Meehan

Professor Courtney Meehan is a distinguished faculty member in the Department of Anthropology at Washington State University, where she also serves as the Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies. Her academic journey is marked by a profound commitment to exploring the intricate relationships between evolution, culture, behavior, and biology, particularly in the realm of maternal-child health. Dr. Meehan's research is characterized by its transdisciplinary approach, which seeks to unravel the complexities of human life through the lens of anthropology. Dr. Meehan's research interests are diverse yet interconnected, focusing on critical areas such as human microbiomes, maternal-child health, cannabis use during lactation, and parental caregiving patterns. Her work delves into the social and environmental factors that influence human microbiomes, offering insights into how these factors impact health and development. By examining cannabis use during lactation, she contributes to a nuanced understanding of its implications for maternal and infant health, a topic of increasing relevance in today's society. Her scholarly endeavors have taken her to various parts of the world, including sub-Saharan Africa, the United States, and Europe, where she has conducted extensive fieldwork. This global perspective enriches her research, allowing her to draw comparisons and identify patterns across different cultural and environmental contexts. Dr. Meehan's work is not only academically rigorous but also socially relevant, addressing pressing issues that affect communities worldwide. Dr. Meehan's published work is a testament to her expertise and dedication. She has contributed significantly to the understanding of infant behavior, cooperative childcare, and life history, shedding light on the evolutionary and cultural dimensions of these phenomena. Her research on human milk composition and immune factors is particularly noteworthy, offering valuable insights into the nutritional and immunological aspects of breastfeeding. Additionally, her studies on SARS-CoV-2 in human milk have provided critical information during the global pandemic, highlighting her ability to address contemporary challenges through her research. As an educator and mentor, Dr. Meehan is deeply committed to fostering the next generation of scholars. Her role as Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies underscores her dedication to advancing academic excellence and supporting the research endeavors of students and faculty alike. Through her teaching and mentorship, she inspires students to engage with complex questions and pursue innovative research paths. In summary, Professor Courtney Meehan's work stands at the forefront of anthropological research, bridging the gap between biological and cultural understandings of human health and behavior. Her contributions to the field are invaluable, offering a comprehensive perspective on the factors that shape maternal-child health and human development.