Epigenetics can be defined as the study of heritable modifications to DNA that can alter expression of a gene. Typically, epigenetics includes the study of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and noncoding RNAs. Biological anthropologists have a growing interest in epigenetics research because it adds a new layer of complexity to human variation. Epigenetic processes can be influenced by many environmental factors of interest to anthropologists, including nutrition, psychosocial stress, and environmental toxicants or pathogens. Epigenetic marks can change within a person's lifetime, particularly in early childhood, providing a mechanism for rapid adaptation to short‐term environmental changes within the life of an organism. Epigenetic marks also have the potential to be transmitted across generations, allowing for the possibility of intergenerational transmission of health disparities. Study of epigenetic processes can also provide insight into the evolution of nonhuman primates, as well as ancient environmental exposures through analysis of ancient DNA methylation.