Alexandria (Alex) Sambrano is a Ph.D. student in the Evolutionary Anthropology Department at Duke University. Under the guidance of her advisors, Dr. Douglas Boyer and Dr. Charles Musiba, she engages in research topics concerning the relationship between form and function in fossil and extant primates to better understand how evolution has influenced current anatomies. In her efforts she also aims to elucidate the evolutionary backdrop of our unique anatomy to better inform critical investigations of the biomechanical underpinnings of our musculoskeletal system in clinical settings.
Outside of the lab, she enjoys outdoor adventures and art markets. As an Indigenous scholar, she seeks grounding in community, working to help uplift local and campus communities.
- University of Pennsylvania, B.A. Biological Anthropology (2021-2025) | Advisor: Dr. Myra Laird
- Duke University, Ph.D. Evolutionary Anthropology (in progress) | Advisors: Dr. Douglas Boyer & Dr. Charles Musiba
A Note from Alex:
I want to take a moment on this page to acknowledge all of the incredible scientists whose guidance, support, and generosity have shaped every stage of my professional development. Know that my work is as much of a reflection of their exceptional mentorship as it is of my own passions. To Dr. Myra Laird, my undergraduate mentor, thank you for taking a chance on the bright-eyed college student who walked into your lab on a cold Fall afternoon. Your insight, patience, and encouragement have and always will be at the foundation of my career. And to my Ph.D. advisors, Dr. Douglas Boyer & Dr. Charles Musiba, thank you for your continued guidance and support. Your commitment to my development has been crucial and invaluable as I enter new and unfamiliar professional stages.
As for all other researchers and evolutionary anthropology enthusiasts who I have yet to meet, I would love to connect! Please feel free to contact me by email (linked below). I look forward to chatting!
In the meantime, I encourage you to take a look at all of the other research coming out of the Boyer Lab and EARTHO Lab that my amazing colleagues and fellow students have developed as well as all of the other incredible work coming out of the Department of Evolutionary Anthropology at Duke!
Alexandria Sambrano 