Dr. Stoner’s research uses science and technology to understand cultural behaviors of the past that would otherwise remain invisible.  His lab uses techniques like neutron activation analysis (NAA), laser ablation – inductively coupled plasma – mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), and thin section petrography to characterize the composition of artifacts.  Artifact composition can reveal where and how they were made and by whom.  In most ancient societies, some of what is found on an archaeological site was imported from elsewhere, and these compositional techniques help to trace them back to their source.

Stoner also uses geographic information systems (GIS) and satellite-based remote sensing to identify the ancient marks that humans left on the face of earth, such as monumental constructions and agricultural intensifications.  Archaeological survey and excavation are time consuming and costly.  Satellite or aerial remote sensing can greatly aid the archaeologist by identifying features of interest prior to fieldwork and enable more targeted research designs. In many cases, like large-scale irrigation agriculture, features of archaeological interest are more easily identified from the air than on the ground.

Stoner combines these techniques with traditional field excavation and survey to understand ancient cultures in the Americas. His long-term research focuses on the Gulf Coast of Veracruz, central Mexico, and locations in the United States.