Snow Molecular Anthropology Lab (SMAL)

The Snow Lab located in the Social Science building (rooms 240 and 250B) is focused on the analysis of ancient and degraded DNA for anthropological and forensic purposes. The ongoing projects of the lead researcher, Dr. Meradeth Snow, and her graduate students and undergraduate interns, utilize ancient and modern DNA analysis methods to address questions of anthropological and forensic interest. Notably, we focus on prehistoric Mexico, primarily in the northern region, however our projects are wide-ranging, as can be seen below with the list of what our MA and PhD students are currently working on. If you’re interested in seeking an internship, or joining the lab for graduate school, please reach out to Dr. Snow!

The lab hosts a summer lab-intensive (“Lab Camp” or ANTY 495) for three weeks every year. Typically during June, a small set of students join the lab to learn the basics, and not so basics, of working with degraded DNA. No prior experience is required and we accept graduate and undergraduate students, from UM or elsewhere. If you are interested, please contact Dr. Snow for more information.

The facilities themselves include a dedicated ancient DNA laboratory, with controlled and positive-pressure airflow, UV lighting, careful monitoring of all entry, and all other standard aDNA protocols. We also have a modern DNA lab where most of the forensic projects are undertaken. Both labs are equipped with all the necessary tools to allow for successful research on human/animal/microbiome research.