Human Origins (research)

Specialisation of: Archaeology (research)
Degree: Master of Arts in Archaeology (research)
Mode of Study: Full-time
Duration: 2 years
Start date: September, February
Language of instruction: English
Location: Leiden
Croho/isat code: 60133
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Human Origins is a specialisation of the Research Master’s in Archaeology.

Research/PhD

There are three main strands to research on Neanderthal behaviour at Leiden University.

  • The first is the study of the formation, chronology and environments of Middle Palaeolithic sites.
  • The second involves reconstruction of Neanderthal behaviour, primarily on the basis of stone tools, fauna and spatial patterns.
  • Finally, studies of the Neanderthal niche use theory and comparative data from disciplines such as evolutionary ecology, primatology and palaeoanthropology to address differences between the Neanderthal and anatomically modern human record.

Research: between theory and data

Play Archaeological Research at Leiden University (Between theory & data)

PhD-candidate

Adam Jagich

“I was attracted to a graduate degree in Archaeology at Leiden because of the many avenues of study offered by the department in developing my individual research focus.”

“As well as boasting numerous excavations in many countries around the world, Leiden holds a unique position in prehistoric research. Geographically it is well positioned among the many European countries which have Palaeolithic deposits as well as many institutions which house fossil and archaeological collections.

The head of the research group, prof.dr. Wil Roebroeks, is an award-winning authority in Palaeoanthropology and the archaeology of human origins. His continuing efforts into the understanding of the prehistoric world and its inhabitants provide many interesting research opportunities.

Perhaps more than any other species in the tree of human origins, the Neandertals offer a unique perspective on the evolution and characterisation of our own species, Homo Sapiens. My research is geared towards understanding the temporal shape changes of their geographic distribution, the factors responsible for these mutations and their evolutionary consequences.

The combination of the broad range of areas and specialisations covered in the Faculty of Archaeology in Leiden, and the freedom afforded to individual researchers makes this institution an ideal environment for quality students to pursue their individual academic interests.”