DR. BEVERLY GOODMAN
Founding Member
Dr. Beverly Goodman is a leading marine geoarchaeologist, extensively involved in underwater research projects across the Mediterranean, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico. With a career that combines marine sciences with archaeological discoveries, Dr. Goodman uncovers the secrets of ancient and modern human impacts on marine environments.
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Currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Haifa, Dr. Goodman has dedicated her career to the exploration and study of underwater landscapes. Her work involves a dynamic combination of field research, teaching, and collaboration with international experts, which often takes her around the globe to locations like Jordan, Israel, Greece, Turkey, Italy, and the Yucatan Peninsula.
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Dr. Goodman's academic journey is as vast as the oceans she studies. After starting with an Associate’s degree in general studies from Harper College, she pursued a B.A. in Anthropology with an emphasis on Archaeology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, followed by an M.A. in Anthropology from Penn State University. She completed her Ph.D. in Geology at McMaster University, Canada, focusing on marine geoarchaeology. Along her educational path, she was recognized as a Fulbright Scholar and a National Geographic Emerging Explorer.
Research and Impact
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Dr. Goodman’s research primarily focuses on reconstructing ancient marine environments to understand how past civilizations interacted with coastal areas and were affected by catastrophic events such as tsunamis and hurricanes. Her methods include sophisticated underwater excavation techniques and geological core sampling, which provide insights into past climates and landscapes. Additionally, her work explores the ecological impacts of modern human activities like fish farming, contributing valuable data for environmental management and policy-making.
One of the most thrilling aspects of Dr. Goodman's work is the discovery of personal artifacts from ancient times, which connect her directly with past individuals. Finding items like a 2000-year-old leather sandal in the sea not only highlights the everyday lives of ancient peoples but also brings humor and humanity into the scientific narrative.
Beyond her research, Dr. Goodman is passionate about educating the public and her students about marine archaeology and environmental conservation. Her work not only sheds light on historical coastal life but also informs current coastal management strategies to better prepare for future environmental challenges.
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Dr. Goodman grew up by the shores of Lake Michigan, where she developed a deep love for water and its mysteries. Supported by her family and inspired by maritime pioneers like Jacques Cousteau, she pursued her passion for the ocean through scuba diving and marine research. Though her work often encompasses her hobbies, she enjoys reading fiction, cooking, and gardening during her downtime.
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Reflecting on her career, Dr. Goodman feels fortunate to have followed her diverse interests, which have all contributed to her unique expertise. While she occasionally muses about the road not taken—like sailing around the world on a tall ship—her current work continues to fulfill her deeply, allowing her to contribute significantly to both scientific understanding and practical environmental applications.
Throughout her career, Dr. Goodman has faced numerous challenges, including the daunting task of defining a career path in a field as specialized and unconventional as underwater coastal geoarchaeology. Her early academic years were marked by uncertainty as she navigated between various programs and disciplines, ultimately shaping her own unique niche through perseverance and a broad interdisciplinary approach. This journey taught her the importance of resilience and adaptability, qualities that have enabled her to excel in a field that demands both rigorous scientific methodology and creative problem-solving. Dr. Goodman’s story is a compelling reminder of the importance of following one's passion, despite the obstacles that may arise, and her career serves as an inspiration to aspiring scientists and archaeologists who wish to carve their own paths in the scientific world.
Dr. Beverly Goodman’s career is a profound testament to the ways interdisciplinary studies can impact our understanding of the world. From her early interests in geology to her distinguished role as a marine geoarchaeologist, she exemplifies how curiosity, education, and dedication can lead to a fulfilling career that not only satisfies personal aspirations but also serves the greater good.