Socant Feature

Dec 3, 2015

Research seeks answers to black lung resurgence

For some, the words “black lung” may stir thoughts of an antiquated disease. However, after cases among miners dropped from nearly 30 percent to 3 percent between 1969 and 1999, recent research shows that trend reversing in central Appalachia. NC State doctoral student Aysha Bodenhamer aims to find out what’s led to the resurgence and what miners, their families and the industry are doing about it. 

Apr 14, 2014

Where Credit is Due: How Acknowledging Expertise Can Help Conservation Efforts

Scientists know that tapping into local expertise is key to conservation efforts aimed at protecting biodiversity – but researchers rarely give credit to these local experts. Anthropologist and associate professor of international studies Nora Haenn says that’s a problem, both for the local experts and for the science itself. 

Sep 6, 2013

A View to the Making

As a long-time professor of sociology at NC State, Michael Schwalbe documents and interprets the social world. As a photographer, he taps into an altogether different way to share what he sees. Schwalbe’s latest project is an exhibit of photographs and text called A View to the Making: Portraits of North Carolina Craft Artists at Work. 

Jul 1, 2013

Bill Smith Named Head, Department of Sociology and Anthropology

The Department of Sociology and Anthropology welcomes William R. Smith as head, effective July 1, 2013. 

Oct 17, 2012

Parenting is More Important Than Schools to Academic Achievement

New research from NC State University sociologist Toby Parcel and others finds that parental involvement is a more significant factor in a child’s academic performance than the qualities of the school itself. “Our study shows that parents need to be aware of how important they are, and invest time in their children – checking homework, attending school events and letting kids know school is important,” says Parcel, who co-authored a paper on the work. “That’s where the payoff is.” 

Sep 24, 2012

Parents, Teens, Sex Ed and ‘The Talk’

In this guest post, Assistant Professor of Sociology Sinikka Elliott suggests five things you should know about parents, teens, sex ed, and 'The Talk.' Elliott is the author of the new book, “Not My Kid: What Parents Believe about the Sex Lives of Their Teenagers.” 

Sep 13, 2012

Student Archaeologist Digs Her Field of Study

Park Scholar Alyson Harding ‘13 has spent the last few summers digging in cemeteries, examining skeletal remains in museums, and excavating trenches. She wouldn't have it any other way. Harding is pursuing a double major in anthropology and chemistry with a concentration in bioarchaeology. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in anthropology after she graduates next spring. 

Apr 25, 2012

It’s All in Your Head: Tracing Skull Differences

Anthropologist Ann Ross, who is receiving an Outstanding Research Award from the NC State University Alumni Association this spring, has co-authored a paper with her former grad student Ashley Humphries that sheds new light on the characteristics of male and female skulls.