Heather Richards-Rissetto

Heather Richards-Rissetto is an esteemed Associate Professor in Anthropology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she delves into the fascinating world of the ancient Maya of Central America. Her academic journey is marked by a profound commitment to understanding how past societies used architecture to convey information and shape social experiences. As a Faculty Fellow in the Center for Digital Research in the Humanities, Heather is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology with archaeological research. Her pioneering work involves the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and 3D technologies to archaeological studies. Heather's innovative approach has led to the development of digital tools that allow for the visualization of ancient Maya architecture, offering new insights into the cultural and historical contexts of these structures. Her current projects are particularly exciting, as they incorporate machine learning techniques to identify archaeological sites and 3D scanning methods to document Maya temples in unprecedented detail. Heather's expertise is not confined to the laboratory or classroom; she has extensive fieldwork experience across various countries, contributing significantly to the understanding of digital heritage and archaeological GIS. Her scholarly contributions are well-recognized, with numerous articles published on topics such as digital heritage, ancient landscapes, and the application of GIS in archaeology. In addition to her research and teaching responsibilities, Heather has played a pivotal role in directing and participating in several funded projects focused on digital archaeology and cultural heritage preservation. Her work not only advances academic knowledge but also emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage through innovative digital means. Heather's dedication to her field is evident in her continuous efforts to bridge the gap between technology and archaeology, ensuring that the stories of ancient civilizations are accessible and preserved for future generations. Her contributions have made significant impacts on how researchers and the public understand and engage with the past, highlighting the enduring relevance of ancient societies in today's digital age.