Shaymae IKEN is a PhD researcher in paleontology with a multidisciplinary focus on ancient DNA, stable isotope analysis, and Quaternary paleoecology. Her current research centers on the brown bear (Ursus arctos) in Morocco, investigating its evolutionary history, environmental adaptations, and extinction dynamics during the Late Pleistocene and Holocene.
She began her academic journey at INSAP (Institut National des Sciences de l’Archéologie et du Patrimoine), where she developed a strong foundation in archaeology and natural sciences. She went on to earn her Master’s degree from University Mohammed V, specializing in Quaternary sciences. She is currently pursuing her PhD at UDC University, where she combines techniques from paleogenetics, isotope geochemistry, and zooarchaeology to reconstruct past environments and species interactions.
Her doctoral research focuses on applying ancient DNA analysis to trace genetic diversity and lineage patterns of brown bears in North Africa. By pairing this with stable isotope (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N) studies, she is reconstructing the dietary habits and ecological niches of these animals across shifting climatic periods. This integrative approach helps address broader questions of species resilience, habitat change, and human-faunal relationships in North Africa.
She has conducted fieldwork at key paleontological sites across Morocco and collaborates with both local institutions and international labs to process ancient biomaterials and isotopic samples.
Research Interests:
- Pleistocene and Holocene megafauna of North Africa
- Ancient DNA and paleogenomics
- Stable isotope analysis (carbon, nitrogen) for paleodiet and paleoenvironment
- Extinction and survival dynamics in arid and semi-arid ecosystems
- Human-fauna interactions in the Late Quaternary
Education:
- PhD in Paleontology – UDC University (ongoing)
- Master’s in Quaternary Science and Paleontology – University Mohammed V
- Bachelor’s in Archaeology and Natural Sciences – INSAP (Institut National des Sciences de l’Archéologie et du Patrimoine)
Current Position:
PhD Candidate at UDC University, focusing on the multi-proxy analysis of Ursus arctos remains in Morocco using ancient DNA, isotopes, and morphometrics to reconstruct past environments and species dynamics.
Statement of Purpose:
“My research seeks to bridge paleontology and molecular science to understand how large mammals adapted to past environmental stressors. I’m eager to collaborate with experts in paleogenetics, stable isotope ecology, and North African prehistory to expand our knowledge of ecological change and species extinction in the region.”