AGES

Archaeological, Geographical & Environmental Sciences

Biological and Social Identity

Our research explores the ecology and biocultural adaptations of individuals and societies in the past. To do this we use a combination of approaches, including biological anthropology, scientific analysis, and cultural archaeology. We are particularly interested in the topics of ecology, health, disease, and violence, which we approach primarily through the analysis of skeletal remains (Health and Identity). Issues of social status, control and inequality are explored from a wide range of perspectives, including palaeopathology, materiality theory, and geophysical survey of conflict zones (Conflict and Social Control). We also develop and apply stable light isotope, radiogenic isotope, and micro-wear techniques to capture information on the life history, diet and mobility of individuals in the past (Diet and Migration). Further studies examine the taphonomic processes that influence preservation and contribute to our understanding of archaeological and forensic materials (Degradation and Preservation).

Research Units:

• Biological Anthropology Research Centre (BARC)
• Taphonomy
• Stable Light Isotope Facility

Research Projects:

• The Battle of Towton Mass Grave
• The Gristhorpe Man at Bradford
• Finding Northern Ireland's Disappeared
• From Cemetery to Clinic
• Digitised Diseases
• The Digitised Diseases Project Blog