Investigating the domestication of the chili pepper (Capsicum spp.) in Mexico using modern and archaeological seeds
Required Availability
Spring 2018Course Credit?
NoPaid Position?
Yes - $17/hrFaculty
Katherine ChiouKeywords
Archaeology | Plants | Botany | Domestication | Seeds | Chili Peppers | Microscope PhotographyDescription
What was the timing and context of the domestication of the chili pepper (Capsicum spp.) in Mexico over 10,000 years ago? To address this question, this project will conduct a morphometric analysis of modern chili pepper seeds collected from across Mexico to develop an identification methodology that can be used to distinguish various chili pepper cultivars and species. This methodology will then be applied towards the systematic identification of chili pepper seeds recovered from some of the earliest archaeological sites with evidence of plant cultivation in Mexico. This project is a single component of a broader, multidisciplinary collaboration between archaeologists and biologists from multiple institutions in the United States and Mexico. The results of this project will be used to help investigators trace changes in chili pepper distributions over time. Students involved in this research will learn how to use the microscope photography station in the Ancient People and Plants Laboratory as well as special software used for collecting measurement information on seed attributes. This data will be entered into a database and analyzed at the conclusion of the project.
Special Directions
Please attach a CV and a brief cover letter expressing your interest in the project and applicable skills.
Special Skills
Desired, but not required: -Experience with microscope work -Interest in plants -Experience with Microsoft Office programs and Adobe Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator) -Background in statistics Required: -Patience -Work Ethic -Enthusiasm for Research -Organizational Skills