bioarchaeologist
BY-oh-ar-kee-OL-uh-jist
Definition
A scientist who studies human remains from archaeological sites to understand the health, diet, and causes of death of past populations.
Etymology
The word is a hybrid construction combining the Greek 'bios' (life) with 'archaeologist,' which itself stems from the Greek 'arkhaios' (ancient) and 'logos' (study). It emerged in the 20th century to describe the specialized intersection of biological anthropology and archaeology.
In the news
Jo Buckberry is identified as a bioarchaeologist, highlighting her professional role in analyzing the skeleton's physical trauma to determine the cause of death. Her expertise allows the team to interpret the 700-year-old injuries through a modern medical lens.
Archaeologists Finally Figured Out How a Medieval Man Got Severe Car Crash Injuries 700 Years Ago
Read the full article ↗VICE