Iris is an archaeologist and anthropologist interested in global maritime migration, community-oriented archaeology, paleoanthropology, and rock art research. She recently earned a masters degree in Maritime Archaeology from Flinders University. Her thesis focussed on maritime imagery within the rock art of the Yanyuwa people of the Gulf of Carpentaria. She also holds BA (honours) degrees in Anthropology and History of Science from the University of Chicago.

Her previous archaeological experience includes fieldwork in Peru, Australia, Malaysia, and California, both in academic and heritage management settings. She has contributed to lab work on projects in Ethiopia, China, and Mexico. Iris has also applied anthropological principles to library, conservation, teaching, and museum-based roles. Through these positions, Iris has gained transferable skills such as working with diverse stakeholders including Indigenous groups, prioritizing safety in challenging conditions and maintaining data collection standards during excavation and survey.

Iris is always learning, and looks forward to working on interesting projects concerning both Maori and colonial heritage in Aotearoa New Zealand.