Bioarchéologists

Bioarchaeology is a subfield of archaeology that focuses on the scientific study of human remains. Bioarchaeologists analyze skeletal and sometimes mummified or cremated human remains from past populations to understand their lives, health, diet, social practices, and interactions with their environment. They employ a variety of scientific techniques, including osteology, paleopathology, isotopic analysis, and ancient DNA analysis.

Osteology, the study of bones, allows bioarchaeologists to determine age, sex, stature, and identify any skeletal abnormalities or signs of trauma. Paleopathology involves the study of diseases and injuries evident in skeletal remains, providing insights into the health status of past populations and the prevalence of certain conditions. Isotopic analysis, often using carbon and nitrogen isotopes from bone collagen, can reveal information about an individual's diet and the geographic origin of their food sources. More recently, ancient DNA analysis has become a powerful tool for understanding population movements, kinship, and evolutionary relationships.

By integrating data from these various scientific methods, bioarchaeologists reconstruct the biocultural history of past peoples. They investigate how biological factors and cultural behaviors influenced each other, shedding light on aspects such as migration patterns, agricultural practices, social stratification, ritualistic behaviors, and the impact of disease and environmental change on human populations. Their work contributes significantly to our understanding of human evolution, adaptation, and the diversity of past human experiences.