Joseph Orkin, Ph.D
Assistant Professor, Department of anthropology at the Université de Montréal
Mass spectrometry–based approaches to biological anthropology
Abstract
Biological anthropology seeks to understand the diversity, evolution, and ecology of humans and our primate relatives. However, the challenges of working with non-invasive and culturally important materials have limited the application of molecular methods in the field. Recent advances in mass spectrometry and the isolation of biomolecules from degraded samples have opened the door to answering previously unknowable anthropological questions. First, non-invasive primate ecology can be expanded through the use of quantitative fecal proteomics from free-ranging populations by integrating host physiological, dietary, and gut microbial data. Second, paleoproteomic methods are opening a window into deep-time molecular phylogenetics, advancing molecular evolution beyond the limits of ancient DNA. Third, traditional food preservation techniques vary widely across human cultures. By integrating mass spectrometry with cultural anthropology, we can reveal how subtle distinctions in taste and texture are associated with deeply rooted cultural preferences.
Biosketch
Joseph is an Assistant Professor (Professeur adjoint) at the Université de Montréal, where he leads the Molecular Anthropology and Primatology Lab. His research program examines the diversity and adaptive evolution of primates, humans, and their commensal microbes. The Orkin Lab specializes in the application of multiomic tools—genomics, proteomics, and metagenomics—to free-ranging primate populations using non-invasive biomaterials, extinct primates through the study of ancient biomolecules, and human dietary diversity through the biocultural analysis of fermented and preserved foods. Joseph earned his PhD in anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis and completed postdoctoral research at the University of Calgary and the Institut de Biologia Evolutiva (CSIC–UPF) in Barcelona, Spain.
Date
Date(s) - January 13, 2026
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Emplacement / Location
Université de Montréal - Campus MIL (Beer and pizza at 18h, conference at 19h in A-4502)