As a member of the Terhune Lab, I consider science to be a team sport. Sharing findings with other researchers and the wider public is the best practice for any science advocate. I am able to do this along with the fantastic team of researchers in the Terhune Lab during our annual Anthropology Open House night at UARK, which showcases our research to prospective students, and during outreach to schools and other organizations. Furthermore, the Terhune Lab is heavily interested in inspiring next generation scientists, particularly women and other underrepresented peoples. You can read more about the Terhune Lab by clicking the link below.

The bulk of hyoid research in humans exists in tandem with research on dysphagia, or swallowing disorders. Dysphagia affects roughly 16% of the world’s population, and more heavily impacts the elderly. As the hyoid is heavily involved in swallowing, my research has the potential to provide novel insights into how to treat dysphagia. Because of this, I will form connections with existing dental research groups and speech pathologists in Northwest Arkansas as well as make my findings readily available to those who are actively creating new physical therapies to treat swallowing and speech disorders.