Dr. Theresa Emmerich Kamper is a distinguished experimental archaeologist and traditional tanning specialist with over 25 years of experience in primitive living skills and technologies. Originally from Wyoming, USA, she was raised in a family of outdoor enthusiasts, which fostered her early interest in utilizing natural resources. By the age of 12, she had taught herself the art of brain tanning, aiming to honor the entirety of the animals harvested by her family.

Pursuing her passion academically, Dr. Kamper earned both a Master's degree and a Ph.D. in Experimental Archaeology from the University of Exeter in the UK. Her doctoral research focused on the microscopic analysis of prehistoric tanning technologies, contributing valuable insights into ancient leather processing methods. Beyond academia, she has shared her expertise through teaching various traditional tanning techniques—including fat tan, vegetable tan, alum taw, and rawhide production—to diverse groups ranging from university students to bushcraft practitioners.

Dr. Kamper's practical skills and scholarly knowledge have led to collaborations with numerous museums and educational institutions. She has conducted leather artifact analyses, provided public demonstrations at open-air museums, and replicated artifacts for exhibitions, thereby bridging the gap between academic research and public engagement. Her commitment to experiential learning was further showcased during her participation in Season 8 of the History Channel's survival series "Alone," where she applied her ancestral skills in a challenging wilderness environment.

Currently based in Exeter, UK, Dr. Kamper continues to teach and conduct research worldwide, aiming to preserve and promote traditional skills. Her dedication to understanding and reviving ancient technologies not only enriches academic discourse but also inspires a broader appreciation for humanity's shared heritage.