Biological Anthropology

Human osteology (Biological Anthropology) is the study of the human skeleton. By studying the skeleton, we can increase our knowledge about prehistoric and historic people, the societies they lived in, and the conditions they lived under. Bones can provide information about a person's biological sex, age, living stature, the diseases they may have suffered from, treatments they underwent, what they ate, and in specific cases, even how they died. The study of human bones can also shed light on burial rituals and traditions for handling the deceased. In a broader perspective, one can investigate variations within and between populations and illuminate demographic themes (such as average lifespan, child mortality, disease burden, and the degree of violence) in a particular area, during a specific time period, or across ages.
At the Laboratory of Biological Anthropology (link to website), we conduct analyses of both burned and unburned skeletal remains from archaeological excavations. These may include inhumation graves, cremation graves, urn burials, bog bodies, mummies, settlements, or stray finds. We have extensive experience in analyzing human skeletons from all cultural periods in Denmark and Greenland, and we also cover skeletal material from the rest of the world. We prefer to receive the remains cleaned. Excavations of blocks (urns or fragile remains) may be carried out by agreement.

We offer:
• Anthropological analysis (burned and unburned)
• Field assistance
• Sample collection
• Assistance with exhibitions

Sample material for scientific analyses such as isotope and DNA analyses can be taken by agreement.
The skeletal material can be deposited in the Anthropological Collection (link to anthropological collection) by agreement. Depositing is included in the price with prior analysis. Anthropological analysis can be combined with other studies, including 3D surface scanning and photogrammetry. CT scanning for purposes of 3D reconstruction and printing is carried out in collaboration with the forensic institute and is invoiced separately through them. For further information, contact Marie Louise Jørkov.
If you wish to request an anthropological analysis, please fill out the application form. We also appreciate receiving information about the archaeological context, including excavation reports, drawing plans and similar documents.

Contact

Marie Louise Jørkov
Senior researcher, Manager of the Laboratory of Biological Anthropology
Research: Human Osteology, Forensic Anthropology
Phone: +45 20 63 50 54
Email: mljorkov@sund.ku.dk