About
I’m a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Helsinki. I am a multidisciplinary human scientist, with an interest in how cultures and technologies evolve, and how people — past and present, across cultural boundaries — have solved everyday problems and constructed knowledge systems. Recently, I have developed an interest in ethnomathematics, and I am currently investigating the evolution of a suite of string technologies (ethnotopology). Another current topic of interest is the role of play in cultural and cognitive evolution.
My work crosses the borders of cognitive science, (cognitive) anthropology, cultural evolution, complexity science, and sustainability science. Regarding the latter, I (try to) apply my research to help preserve a more ecologically and culturally diverse world. I am a part of the Past Present Sustainability Research Unit (PAES).
As a researcher, I am interested in the broad methodological palette, ranging from computational methods to ethnographic research. As a human, my interest is piqued by sea kayaking, the outdoors, photography, knots and string games, woodwork, and music. I am also a mushroom forager and a student of ethnomycology. Wherever possible, I try to combine these interests: I have a firm belief that the best theory emerges from practical knowledge.
If you would like to get in touch, feel free to drop me a line. I’m always open for discussing new ideas and collaborations.