Rate My Professor Nathan Richards

His research specializes in maritime archaeological theory and method, particularly cultural site formation processes of the archaeological record, alongside interests in 19th and 20th century maritime history, the history of technology, and comparative anthropological approaches to maritime subjects. Key publications include Ships’ Graveyards: Abandoned Watercraft and the Archaeological Formation Process (University Press of Florida, 2008; second edition, Society for Historical Archaeology, 2022), The Archaeology of Watercraft Abandonment (co-edited with Sami K. Seeb, Springer, 2013), and The Garden Island Ships’ Graveyard Maritime Heritage Trail (co-authored with Robyn Hartell, Government of South Australia, 2001). He has published numerous book chapters and articles in prestigious journals such as the International Journal of Nautical Archaeology, Bermuda Journal of Archaeology and Maritime History, and Historical Archaeology. Richards has obtained over 25 external grants totaling more than $1 million from funders including NOAA and the National Geographic Society. In 2025, he was appointed Distinguished Professor for his exemplary teaching, research, and service. He advises on NOAA’s Monitor National Marine Sanctuary, serves on editorial boards for maritime archaeology journals, and holds memberships in professional organizations like the Society for Historical Archaeology and the Australasian Institute for Maritime Archaeology. His contributions have influenced maritime archaeology through innovative studies on shipwrecks, battlefield sites, and cultural heritage across multiple countries.