Enrichment fellow hopes ancient plantlife will explain environmental change

Name: Husna Mashaka Katambo

Program: PhD

College: School of Human Evolution and Social Change and the Institute of Human Origins

Please tell us about your academic and professional background.

My name is Husna Mashaka Katambo; I'm a PhD student in the School of Human Evolution and Social Change and the Institute of Human Origins. I hold a bachelor's degree in Heritage Management from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and a master's degree from the Department of History and Archaeology at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. I chose ASU for its multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary approach. ASU has inspired me because it allows students to learn various scientific methods. I'm glad to study here because I can incorporate all anthropological disciplines into my research.

What types of problems do you work on and why do you think they are important?

I am examining the paleoecology and past human-environment interaction at the Kisese II rock shelter in north-central Tanzania. I am incorporating data about past environmental changes, such as vegetation, temperature and precipitation from archaeological sites and local lake records. The research is essential because it helps us better understand how humans and climate change have shaped our environments and vice-versa, in one of the most archaeologically rich parts of the world. 

How did you become involved in this work? What inspired you?

My interest has always been in understanding how climate change affects the environment. I had considered doing many things in my career. Still, ever since I learned about paleobotany (ancient plants), I have felt that it is what I want to do. I was introduced to this when I worked at an archaeological site in Tanzania, collecting soil samples for phytolith analysis without knowing what it meant. In 2018, I participated in the Koobi Fora Field School. I chose a project that used the same methods of micro botanical remains (pollen and phytoliths). From that time, I was inspired by what these microscopic remains can tell us about environmental change, especially vegetation history, over millions of years. 

What’s something you learned during your professional or academic journey that surprised you or changed your perspective?

During my journey, I learned that failure is part of learning. All we need is to be open-minded about our future and career goals. Failure helps to be resilient and perseverant. The journey might take time to get where you need to be, but it will pay off one day. Also, I learned the power of teamwork. As Ken Blanchard said, “None of us is as smart as all of us.”

How have you interacted with the Graduate College? Is there an event, initiative or funding opportunity you’re excited about?

I have interacted with the Graduate College through various events, including the course I attend for the New Student Colloquium. I'm excited to participate in the "When Trees Dream" and Research Computing Expo 2023 events. The Graduate Research Support Program Travel Awards also intrigue me!

Congratulations on being accepted as an Enrichment Fellow – tell us about it!

What I like most about being an Enrichment Fellow is meeting with new communities from different fields and multidisciplinary approaches that positively impact the world.

What are some of your long-term professional goals?

I aim to build a sustainable program of paleobotanical and paleoecological study in Africa led by African scholars. I wish to join a team of other scientists from Tanzania and abroad to explore critical and understudied links between people and their environments and to bring a new voice to telling humanity’s stories. I hope to teach at a college or university and train Tanzanian students. I hope to conduct field research and publish articles and books on paleoecology and archaeology that will contribute to issues of global importance. 

What advice do you have for students interested in your field or higher education?

My supervisor once told me you need passion and patience in this field. I add that determination, self-discipline and hard work make dreams a reality. Do your research passionately; then, it will be easier to overcome the hurdles. Also, take a break and ask for help when you feel overburdened because it may be vital for your health. 

What are your relaxation practices to recharge during the semester?

I usually work out in the evening, take a walk and take a day off on the weekends! 

Learn more about the Graduate College Enrichment Fellowship