What is the Maya Research Program?
The Maya Research Program (MRP) is a non-profit organization (501(c)3) dedicated to archaeological and ethnographic research in Latin America. Since its founding in 1992, MRP has conducted annual archaeological excavations in northwestern Belize and ethnographic research in Yaxunah, Mexico. Central to MRP’s archaeological efforts is the Blue Creek Archaeological Project, which investigates several key Maya sites - including Blue Creek, Grey Fox, Nojol Nah, Tulix Mul, Tz’unun, and Xnoha. (You can explore many of MRP’s publications here.)
Over the past three decades, MRP has investigated and conserved numerous Maya sites in northwestern Belize. To date, more than 3,000 students and volunteers from around the globe have participated in the project - contributing to groundbreaking discoveries and fostering a deeper understanding of Maya civilization. The current Blue Creek Archaeological Project's research team includes faculty members and graduate students from over a dozen universities worldwide. The program boasts a diverse team of accomplished scientists, many of whom are recognized as leaders in their fields. MRP’s work has garnered support from prestigious organizations such as the Archaeological Institute of America, National Geographic Society, National Science Foundation, Humanities Texas, Heinz Foundation, and American Council of Learned Societies. In recognition of its exceptional outreach efforts, MRP was honored with the Archaeological Institute of America’s Excavation Outreach Contest award.
A cornerstone of MRP’s mission is its commitment to education and fostering participation from students and volunteers. The program welcomes individuals of all backgrounds—from aspiring archaeologists to curious lifelong learners—to engage in hands-on archaeological and anthropological research. Participants, ranging in age from 18 to over 80, come together to contribute to MRP’s research goals while gaining invaluable field experience. Approximately half of the participants are university students under 30, while the other half includes professionals and retirees. While the majority of participants come from the United States and Canada, MRP also includes participants from Australia, Belize, China, the European Union, United Kingdom, Mexico, Guatemala, Japan, and Russia. Academic credit is available for student participants, making MRP an ideal opportunity for those pursuing formal education in archaeology or related fields.
MRP’s impact extends far beyond the field. Many alumni have gone on to build successful careers in archaeology, anthropology, and related disciplines, often returning to MRP projects for their graduate theses and dissertations. For others, the program serves as a transformative educational experience, deepening their understanding of ancient cultures and the methodologies used to study them.
Through its commitment to research, education, and preservation, the Maya Research Program continues to make significant contributions to the study of Maya civilization. By inspiring and empowering the next generation of scholars and enthusiasts, MRP ensures that the legacy of the ancient Maya remains alive for future generations.
Contact Information
Address: Maya Research Program: 1912 East Southeast Loop 323 #296; Tyler, Texas 75701
Phone: 817-831-9011
Email: mrpinquiries@gmail.com