Introduction to Biomolecular Archaeology
Biomolecular archaeology is an interdisciplinary field that applies molecular and biochemical techniques to investigate the human past. In this course, we explore how materials like bones, plants, and other organic remains can reveal information about past diets, environments, and human movement. We will learn about methods such as stable isotope analysis, ancient DNA research, and residue analysis, which help archaeologists understand how people lived and interacted with their surroundings. The course also touches on ethical issues and shows how these methods are applied in real archaeological work. Overall, it provides a practical introduction to how science can be used to answer archaeological questions.
About the course
Content
The course provides an overview of the main biomolecular methods applied in the study of archaeological and historical objects. The course consists of two major blocks:
- lectures introducing different biomolecules, study materials and their analytical methods;
- active learning, group work, and seminars.
The course concludes with an individual mini-project in which the student prepares a critical overview focussing on one specific method and/or research material.
Learning outcomes
Student who has completed the course:
- Has basic knowledge of the main groups of biomolecules that can be identified in archaeological and historical materials.
- Knows major biomolecular methods applied in the study of archaeological and historical objects.
- Is able to identify and interpret different biomolecular archaeology methods and their analytical results.
- Is able to evaluate and select an appropriate biomolecular analysis method based on the research question and study material.
Programme
Topics to be covered:
- Introduction to biomolecular archaeology
- Ecofacts: humans, animals & plants
- Human bones & stable isotope analysis: dietary analysis
- Human bones & stable isotope analysis: provenance (S and Sr)
- Organic residue analysis: pottery
- Palaeoproteomics: peptide fingerprinting & shotgun proteomics
- aDNA analysis: population genomics & kinship
- aDNA analysis: metagenomics
- Ethics in biomolecular archaeology
- Modern analytical techniques in art & heritage science
- Biomolecular archaeology in the field
Teaching method(s)
The course is 100% web-based with live (synchronous) online sessions.
Group work 1: plan for biomolecular analysis for an object or site
Group work 2: creating a skills test about one biomolecular archaeology method
Individual project: choose one research object or a group/type of biomolecules/analysis and prepare an overview of data collection, methodology, and interpretation of results.
Assessment method(s)
Grade system: non-differentiated (pass, fail, not present)
Requirements to be met for final assessment:
- Participation in at least 70% of lectures, seminars
- Preparation and presentation of Group Work 1 & 2
- Preparation and presentation of an individual mini-project, and reviewing one mini-project
Lecturers
Ester Oras; Lola Sõukand
Course dates
This course takes place in the first semester of the academic year 2026-2027. It starts in the first week of September and runs until mid-January.
Every topic in the course includes a live (synchronous) online session once a week on Wednesdays 13.15- 15.00 (CEST/CET) until mid December. First online session is on September 2.
Info on the course schedule will be HERE
How to register?
Entry requirements: no specific requirements. Students of all disciplines can apply.
Students from all ENLIGHT partner universities and from all disciplines are eligible to participate. For application, please use this form. Apply by August 16, 2026. The University of Tartu will select the permitted number of students and inform the admitted students as soon as possible.
Before applying, students should check with their home faculty or programme whether the course can be included in their curriculum and whether the credits will be recognised. Students from Ghent University must obtain faculty approval by completing this form and having it signed by the Faculty Student Administration.
Contact your ENLIGHT coordinator for further information on the application process or consult the linked information:
- University of the Basque Country:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - University of Bern:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , see application instructions for students at the University of Bern - University of Bordeaux:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Comenius University Bratislava:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , see application instructions for students at the Comenius University Bratislava - University of Galway:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Ghent University:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , see information about BIP's and virtual courses - University of Groningen:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - University of Göttingen:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (for BIP’s) orThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. (other courses) - Uppsala University:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , see application instructions for students at Uppsala University