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Courtney
Manthey
BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGIST
Hello.
Holy Laetoli! My name is Courtney Manthey-Pierce and I am a biological anthropologist and human biologist interested in evolutionary genetics. Much of my research involves examining polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as an authentic evolutionary mismatch disorder, where a beneficial or neutral heritable trait evolving in one environment becomes maladaptive in another. Through my research, I aim to better understand the prevalence of PCOS in extant populations and aid in the development of gene therapy treatments.
My Story.
It's nice to meet you.
Growing up, I was always interested in human origins. I recall watching Indiana Jones countless times and dreaming of a life of adventure. It is no wonder I decided to follow my wild desires and become an anthropologist. I am fortunate enough to study ancient DNA (aDNA), reproduction, and heritable disease evolution.
In late 2018, I graduated from the University of Colorado Springs with a Bachelor of the Arts in Anthropology (Biological) degree. During this time, I also earned an Undergraduate Certificate in Cognitive Archaeology where I examined FOXP2 gene dispersals. Then in 2021, I completed a Master of the Arts in Biological Anthropology degree from the University of Colorado Denver. Additionally, I earned a Master of Public Health Certificate in Maternal and Child Health from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.
Upon my graduation, I became a Research Affiliate for the Department of Anthropology at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. I was also selected to serve as a Senior Professional Research Assistant, and later Research Collaborator, at the Rural Embodiment and Community Health project.
I am passionate about patient advocacy and serve on the Scientific Research Committee at the National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association: PCOS Challenge. Additionally, I am on the CAB at the Anschutz Medical Campus PCOS Multidisciplinary Clinic located in Aurora, Colorado. I am also a Certified Patient Family Partner for the Preeclampsia Foundation on behalf of the Colorado Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative (CPCQC). I use my own experiences and maternal fetal health advocacy work in my private doula practice to aid in improving childbirth outcomes for all.
Public service is also a passion of mine. In September 2023, I was elected to serve as a Junior Service Fellow at the Human Biology Association. In this role, I am the Webmaster and guest co-host the Sausage of Science Podcast (see below). I also manage the Human Biology Association social media accounts and plan to expand all platforms in 2024.
I feel we as anthropologists can make the world a better place for all humans through ethical research, advocacy, and education.
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