Janis Nuckolls

Janis Nuckolls is a distinguished Professor of Linguistics at Brigham Young University, where she has carved a niche in the field of anthropological linguistics. Her extensive fieldwork in Amazonian Ecuador has been pivotal in shaping her research, which delves into the cultural poetics of Quichua verbal practice. Nuckolls is particularly interested in how ideophones and grammatical categories are employed to express attitudinal alignments with nonhuman nature, offering a unique perspective on the interplay between language and environment. In her academic role, Nuckolls is deeply committed to education and research, teaching Quichua Field Studies Classes in Ecuador. Her work on Quichua grammar, phonology, and verbal morphology has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of this indigenous language. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, followed by a Master of Arts and a PhD from the University of Chicago, which laid the foundation for her illustrious career. Nuckolls's contributions to the field of linguistics have been recognized through various honors and awards, including the prestigious Barker lectureship in the College of Humanities. Her scholarly output is extensive, with numerous publications on ideophones, evidentiality, and sensory clustering in Pastaza Quichua. These works have significantly enriched the academic discourse on linguistic expression and cultural interaction. Beyond her research, Nuckolls is passionate about preserving and documenting the Quichua language. She actively engages her students in experiential learning opportunities, facilitating international study programs in Ecuador that provide firsthand exposure to Quichua culture and language. Her dedication to this cause underscores her commitment to both academic excellence and cultural preservation. Through her work, Nuckolls has not only contributed to the academic community but has also played a vital role in fostering a deeper understanding of the Quichua language and its cultural significance. Her efforts continue to inspire students and scholars alike, bridging the gap between linguistic theory and practical application in the field.