Esteban J. Parra, Professor, Department of Anthropology

I am a molecular anthropologist interested in the application of genetic markers to answer questions related to the evolution of human populations and to identify the genetic risk factors involved in complex diseases (e.g type 2 diabetes). I also study the genetic basis of adaptation to different environments. Work in this area includes research on skin pigmentation, a trait showing extensive geographic variation in humans, and adaptation to high altitude. Although I have worked on a wide range of topics (lists of publications), for more than a decade a major focus of my research has been the study of admixture, the process of mixing of human populations. I have investigated extensively the admixture process that took place in the Americas since the 15th century.

 

Copyright © 2018 Esteban J. Parra

All rights reserved.