Carlos Cordova

In broad terms my research focuses on the evolution of past terrestrial environments. I explore the relation between climate, biota, geology, soils, and humans in prehistoric and historic times. My field of research is Geoarchaeology (application of geosciences to archaeological research) and Quaternary paleoecology (focusing on fossils of plants). I do not have a regional focus, but I have worked for decades in North America, Africa, Eastern Europe and Asia.

At this moment my main projects include the late Quaternary evolution of grasslands and savannas in southern Africa and the Great Plains, the human-climate-land interaction in the Middle Volga Region, and the lacustrine dynamics and civilization in the Basin of Mexico. I like to blend the experiences and outcomes into contributions to global databases and materials for books.

Some of the main courses I teach include introduction to physical geography, climate change, and biogeography, among others. My experience teaching face-to-face and online combines theoretical aspects and hands-on exercises. I embrace the use of technology because I believe our students should be prepared for the future. I try to link the content of my courses to my research experience, stressing on the global issues and human-environmental diversity.

I have mentored students in geography, geology, and archaeology. Despite my high expectations from students, I tend to work more as a partner rather than an advisor. I like to see results, and best if they are disseminated through conferences and publications

Research Interests:

Geoarcheology
Geomorphology
Quaternary Paleoecology (pollen and phytoliths)
Geomorphology
Soils