Raiza Patricia Erlenbaugh Soriano de Chaviano is a Panamanian anthropologist and researcher specializing in pre-Hispanic studies. With a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the University of Panama (2024), her work centers on archaeological research, particularly in the study of ceramics, and the preservation and analysis of pre-Hispanic artifacts from Panama.

Currently serving as a Curatorial and Research Assistant at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), Raiza has contributed significantly to organizing and preserving archaeological collections and developing inventories for enhanced accessibility. Her groundbreaking work on the Catalog of Pre-Hispanic Ceramics from the Cerro Juan Díaz Site earned her the prestigious Jackson / Knowlton Award for Outstanding Contribution to Science in 2024.

Raiza has participated in diverse archaeological projects, ranging from excavation and material classification to public outreach. Her previous roles include working with STRI as a Research Fellow, assisting in laboratory research for human rights projects, and coordinating academic events like the II Congress of Anthropology and History of Panama.

In addition to her professional achievements, Raiza has published a guide on pre-Hispanic ceramics and holds various certifications in strategic thinking, leadership, and broadcasting. She is an advocate for education and cultural heritage preservation, combining her research expertise with outreach to promote understanding of Panama’s rich history. Fluent in Spanish and English, Raiza remains committed to advancing interdisciplinary approaches to understanding human history and fostering connections through her research and community work.

Book

• Erlenbaugh, Raiza Patricia. 2024. Catálogo de cerámicas prehispánicas, Cerro Juan Díaz, Panamá (200 a. C - 1550 d.C). 1 ed. Panama: La Imprenta. 2024