DNA for Archaeologists

The ability to use DNA evidence is revolutionizing our understanding of the past. This book introduces archaeologists to the basics of DNA research so they can understand the powers and pitfalls of using DNA data in archaeological analysis and interpretation. By concentrating on the principles and applications of DNA specific to archaeology, the authors allow archaeologists to collect DNA samples properly and interpret the laboratory results with greater confidence. The volume is replete with case examples of DNA work in a variety of archaeological contexts and is an ideal teaching tool for archaeologists and their students.

Elizabeth (Lisa) Matisoo-Smith is Professor of Biological Anthropology at the University of Otago. Her main research focus is on using DNA data to address issues in Pacific prehistory. She developed the use of the commensal model, looking at ancient and modern DNA variation in transported animals, to track human migration pathways in the Pacific, and now combines this approach with analyses of ancient and modern human DNA, working closely with local communities and National Museums in the Pacific region. Lisa has undertaken fieldwork in California, France, French Polynesia, New Guinea, Tokelau, New Zealand and, most recently, Chile.

K. Ann Horsburgh is a Research Fellow in the Department of Anatomy at the University of Otago and an Honorary Research Fellow in the School of Geography, Archaeology and Environmental Studies at the University of Witwatersrand. She earned her Ph.D. in Anthropology at Stanford University where she wrote her dissertation on cattle, dog and sheep domesticaation in Southern African prehistory using ancient DNA. She is currently developing the application of next generation sequencing technology to better understand the processes of human selection in cattle domestication across Africa.