Dr. Miriam Chaiken is a cultural anthropologist with decades of field research experience, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. Her work with humanitarian organizations such as Save the Children and UNICEF focused on the design and implementation of culturally-sensitive programs to combat child hunger, poverty, and gender inequality.

Her current research is with the Westbeth Artists Residence in New York City, the world’s oldest and largest community of artists, which was also home to artists in her family. Her teaching included classes on gender across cultures, applied anthropology, and food and culture.