Cynthia studies the broad fields of geoarchaeology, environmental science, and geoscience education. She analyzes soils, stable isotope chemistry, geomorphology, and geochemistry of archaeological site materials to reconstruct paleoenvironments and understand site taphonomy. She also studies lithic and ceramic artifacts and their provenance. Utilizing climate science, GIS, and the observed behavior of natural soil and water systems, Cynthia aims to resolve questions about archaeological sites, human societies, and natural resource use.