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Department ofAnthropology

Isa Cruz

Isa Cruz

Assistant Professor

Isa Cruz, Ph.D. is a biological anthropologist with research interests focused on the broad environmental contributions to human health and well-being. Her work to date has examined the development of cardiovascular and metabolic conditions among P’urépecha Mexican indigenous in their communities of origin in Michoacán, México and host communities in North Carolina U.S. Cruz uses a mixed-methods approach that includes elements from nutrition, public health, genomics, and is grounded by a biocultural lens.

Research Interests
  • Cardiovascular and metabolic health
  • Cultural change
  • Dietary adaptation
  • Migration
  • Indigenous Mexicans
  • Genetics and epigenetics
  • Physical activity
Education
  • Ph.D. Anthropology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 2022
  • M.A. Anthropology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 2016
  • B.A. Anthropology and Latin American Studies, The California State University, Chico 2013