The Department of Anthropology at The University of Memphis is nationally recognized for its program in applied anthropology. It offers advanced training in engaged scholarship, which builds knowledge and, at the same time, improves the quality of life in communities.

As part of our continued growth, we have launched a new Anthropology Research Laboratory. The lab offers scholars from across the university access to a resource center for engaged studies. Civic leaders and members of the public are also invited to use the facility, to build skills that will help them better understand and address the needs of neighborhoods and communities.

The laboratory serves as a center for community-based research, service-learning, internships and experiential education. The facility features training programs and workshops in qualitative and quantitative ethnographic methods, and tools for data collection and analysis in research projects. Features include: resources for interview, focus group, and systematic observation activities; digital audio recording and text analysis; ethnographic video recording and editing; ethnographic mapping; ethnographic applications of geographic information systems (GIS); internet database mining; webpage development; the production of PowerPoint and electronic poster presentations; and desktop publishing.

Through this effort a critical mass of faculty and students from different schools and departments can collaborate to fulfill a broad range of research and instructional goals. Representatives from the public are also encouraged to use the laboratory as a hub for continuing education, and to facilitate projects that advance the goals of culturally informed development and a better quality of life.

We welcome your suggestions and support to make the new Anthropology Research Laboratory a model for partnership and outreach. Contact the Department of Anthropology at 901-678-2080 or visit us at http://anthropology.memphis.edu/