By Erin Wickey
Scott HustonLEXINGTON, Ky. (June 10, 2025) — Scott Hutson, Ph.D., chair and professor in the Department of Anthropology in the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences, has been honored as a 2025-26 University Research Professor.
Hutson is an archaeologist focusing on ancient Mesoamerica, which encompasses Guatemala, Belize and portions of Mexico, El Salvador and Honduras. His research investigates how cities rose and fell, how power was distributed and how belief systems shaped economic life. His methods include aerial laser scanning of ancient settlements, mapping on foot, excavation and artifact analysis.
Hutson has authored or edited 10 books and is