The Bioanthropology Research Institute formed in 1998 and is administered through the School of Health Sciences. Ronald Beckett, professor emeritus of Health Sciences, and Gerald Conlogue, professor of diagnostic imaging, are the co-executive directors of the institute.

The institute conducts research in biology, archaeology, anthropology and paleopathology through paleoimaging applications including diagnostic imaging, video endoscopy, photography and laboratory analysis. The research is conducted on mummified humans and animals and ancient artifacts without destruction. The co-directors collaborate with bioanthropological researchers from around the globe. The institute conducts workshops, gives presentations and conducts field paleoimaging research worldwide.