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Reconstructing human life-histories using isotopic approaches

Kévin Alexis André Salesse, M.Sc., Ph.D.

Reconstructing human life-histories using isotopic approaches

Kévin Alexis André Salesse, M.Sc., Ph.D.

Reconstructing human life-histories using isotopic approaches

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Course objectives

This course aims to introduce students to some of the most commonly used methodologies in bioanthropology for the reconstruction of human life-histories, through a series of topics and related case studies. Focusing on how to retrieve information from biological materials, we will explore the interdisciplinary nature of bioarchaeology, by borrowing techniques from osteology, analytical chemistry, geochemistry, as well as many other fields.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, a student will be able to understand the ins and outs of isotope studies in bioarchaeology.

Syllabus

1. Introduction to the course (13/09/22 - From 12:00 to 1:50 pm)
2. Basic principles of archaeo-biogeochemistry (20/09/22 - From 12:00 to 1:50 pm)
3. Reconstructing past dietary practices: established and cutting-edge approaches (04/10/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
4. Dietary patterns: a lens to address biocultural interactions (04/10/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
5. Investigating past mobility and migration: An isotopic overview (18/10/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
6. Mobility, kinship, and population genetics: A synergy (18/10/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
7. Big data approaches for big pictures: A change of scale in isotopic studies (01/11/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
8. Interpreting past human diets using stable isotope mixing models (01/11/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
9. Isotope mapping and its applications (15/11/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
10. Applications of isotopic approaches to forensic anthropology (15/11/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
11. Contribution of isotopic analysis to the archaeology of cremation (29/11/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
12. Science communication in isotope research (29/11/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
13. Synthesis of isotope research in the Czechia (13/12/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)
14. Final examination (13/12/22 - From 12:00 to 3:50 pm)

Assessment methods

During the first lecture (on 13/09/22), students agreed on the following assessment methods:

1. A batch of scientific articles (n = 2) will be read and analyzed, individually, by the students. During the semester, each student will have the opportunity to orally present his or her analysis of scientific articles using a Powerpoint slide show. The student must choose a specific date to present their paper assessment.
2. An unessay related to science communication in isotope research will be presented, individually, by each student. Examples are provided in the Powerpoint slide show of the first lecture.
3. A compilation of the Czech isotopic data will be made, collectively, throughout the semester, according to IsoArcH standards. The IsoArcH form will be provided to the students.
4. The course will end with a written examination in the form of a draft of a data article. The first draft will be submitted during the last class. It will be annoted and returned to the students for corrections before the end of December. A second draft will be submitted by 15 January 2023. The ultimate goal will be to be able to submit this data article to the Elsevier's Data in Brief journal during the next semester, co-authored by all the course attendees.

Language of instruction

English

Introduction to the course

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Učitel doporučuje studovat od 12. 9. 2022 do 18. 9. 2022.

Basic principles of archaeo-biogeochemistry

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