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‘Real mummy’s curse’ behind sale and trade of mummified remains exposed

A new study has found evidence of potentially hazardous microbial growth on mummified human and animal remains sold online, posing risks to buyers. The analysis also highlighted non-compliance with postal regulations, putting delivery workers and others at risk. Stronger oversight is needed across online marketplaces and industries.

SourceStaffordshire University·JournalInternational Journal of Cultural Property·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 13, 2026

Societies around the world have buried their dead at home. Anthropologists want to understand why the practice started, and why it has largely disappeared

Researchers analyzed ancient burial records to understand why some societies practiced residential burials and how this practice changed over time. They found that residential burials were more common in older societies than expected, suggesting that cultural practices can shift significantly over centuries.

SourceField Museum·JournalAmerican Antiquity·DateJul 27, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Ötzi and his microbiome: a 5,300-year-old relationship

Researchers at Eurac Research have discovered the microbial community associated with Ötzi, a 5,300-year-old Copper Age human. The study found that Ötzi's gut flora closely resembles early human populations, and cold-adapted yeasts have persisted on his body for thousands of years, holding potential for industrial applications.

SourceEurac Research·JournalMicrobiome·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2026

Researchers link specific microbiomes to archaeological bone degradation

A study published in PLOS One analyzed microbial communities in well-preserved and degraded bones from medieval cemeteries in Norway. The researchers found distinct microbial communities associated with different levels of degradation, suggesting that microbes play a role in bone preservation and decay.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMay 27, 2026

Ancient DNA reveals web of marriage and migration in Peru

A new study analyzing ancient DNA alongside archaeological data suggests that population movement along Peru's Pacific coast began at least 800 years ago, centuries before the rise of the Inca Empire. Genetic evidence reveals mixed ancestry between people from different coastal regions over subsequent generations.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 22, 2026

Climate change is destroying Arctic cultural heritage sites

Researchers found significant erosion damage to graves in a 17th-century whaling site in Svalbard, with textiles nearly completely degraded over 30 years. The study reveals the physical cost of climate change on Arctic cultural heritage sites and the need for revised policies.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateMay 20, 2026
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Even after adopting cattle, early herders kept hunting and gathering

For at least 1,000 years, early herders in eastern Africa continued to fish, hunt, and gather alongside livestock, revealing a diverse diet that varied greatly from person to person. This strategy likely helped them adapt to a changing environment and ensured survival.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 18, 2026

Ice Age butcher’s tools are a sign of ancient humans’ creativity during hard times

The discovery of complex stone tools at the Lingjing archaeological site in China suggests that ancient humans were capable of advanced technological thinking and creativity. The tools, crafted by Homo juluensis, show a high level of organization and planning, indicating a deep understanding of stone properties and fracture mechanics.

SourceField Museum·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·DateMay 7, 2026
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

DNA matches identify four more sailors from Franklin expedition

Researchers from the University of Waterloo have identified four more members of Sir John Franklin's 1845 expedition using DNA samples extracted from skeletal remains. The new discoveries bring the total number of identified sailors to six, providing previously unavailable details about the circumstances and locations of their deaths.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 6, 2026
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Life and death in Late Bronze Age Central Europe

A new interdisciplinary study provides detailed insights into the lives of people living in Central Europe during the Late Bronze Age, revealing gradual changes in ancestry, dietary flexibility, and mortuary practices. The research suggests that communities participated in wider networks of interaction and incorporated change into exis...

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2026

Ancient diets reveal surprising survival strategies in prehistoric Poland

Researchers reconstructed diets of prehistoric communities in north-central Poland, shedding light on how people adapted to changing environments and social landscapes. The study found that Corded Ware communities herded animals in forests and that millet consumption varied among groups, reflecting identity and group boundaries.

SourceUniwersytet Gdanski·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2026
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

A new study refines the dating of human past on the Cantabrian coast 18,000 years ago

A new study refines radiocarbon dating of marine remains in the Cantabrian region of Spain, improving precision for reconstructing human past during the Magdalenian period. The research provides new correction values to accurately interpret site chronology and fine-tune the 'clock' used to reconstruct Palaeolithic human populations.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalRadiocarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2026

Ancient teeth are treasure troves of data on Iron Age lifestyles

A study of ancient teeth from Pontecagnano reveals details about childhood growth and health, as well as adult diets that included cereals, legumes, and fermented foods. The analysis provides insights into the lifestyle and adaptations of the Iron Age Italian community.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2026
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Murder in cold blood?

Researchers successfully identified the skeletal remains of Duke Béla, a member of the Árpád and Rurik dynasties, using a combination of genetic and dental analyses. The study reveals that Béla was attacked by multiple individuals, consuming a diet rich in animal protein.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalForensic Science International Genetics·DateNov 6, 2025

Gut parasites identified from feces of ancient Mexican people

A study published in PLOS One identified genetic signatures of diverse gut parasites in ancient Mexican feces, revealing high prevalence of pathogens like pinworm and E. coli. The analysis provides insights into intestinal disease and sanitation practices of ancient cultures.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS One·TypeObservational study·DateOct 22, 2025
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

How the Slavic migration reshaped Central and Eastern Europe

The study reveals that Slavic groups originated in the region between the Dniester and Don rivers and migrated across Central and Eastern Europe. The genetic data show a mosaic of different groups adapting to local contexts, with no significant sex bias in migrations.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology·JournalNature·DateSep 3, 2025
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

When ideas travel further than people

A new study reconciles opposing views on the spread of Neolithic farming by combining archaeology and genetics. The research found that cultural changes occurred through both people migration and the spread of ideas, depending on the region and period.

SourceUniversity of Lausanne·JournalScience·DateJun 26, 2025

Study casts doubt on ‘incestuous royalty’ in Neolithic Ireland

Researchers challenge the idea of an incestuous social elite ruling over ancient Ireland, citing a lack of corroborating evidence from nearby settlements and dietary practices. The study suggests that the society was more equal, with people sharing resources and living in similar dwellings.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalAntiquity·DateJun 23, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Otago researchers help unlock ancient migration secrets

Otago researchers have recovered ancient genomes from Papua New Guinea, shedding light on the genetic diversity of pre-colonial coastal communities. The study reveals that cultural groups did not intermarry for some time, suggesting a complex tapestry of different cultures and peoples.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateJun 5, 2025

Philippine islands had technologically advanced maritime culture 35,000 years ago

The Philippine archipelago has been found to have a sophisticated ancient technology dating back over 30,000 years, with evidence of seafaring capabilities and specific fishing skills. The discovery highlights the region's significance in the narrative of human migration and adaptation in Island Southeast Asia.

SourceAteneo de Manila University·JournalArchaeological Research in Asia·DateJun 5, 2025

The Roman massacre that never happened according to a new study of an iconic archaeological site

A new study by Bournemouth University reveals that the 'war-cemetery' at Maiden Castle did not die in a single event, but rather experienced lethal violence spanning multiple generations. The findings question the traditional narrative of Roman conquest and highlight the need for reevaluation of other archaeological cemeteries.

SourceBournemouth University·JournalOxford Journal of Archaeology·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 23, 2025
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Archaeologists combine cutting edge research techniques to shed light on the treatment of individuals with disabilities in the late Middle Ages

Researchers analyzed a skeleton with a severe knee injury to uncover the complexities of social attitudes towards individuals with disabilities in medieval Europe. The study found that despite negative cultural views, some individuals with disabilities received long-term care and prominent burials.

SourceDe Gruyter·JournalOpen Archaeology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 15, 2025

Influenza virus hacks cell's internal system

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered that the influenza A virus exploits a protein called AGO2 to regulate gene activity and weaken the immune system. An existing drug, arsenic trioxide, showed promise in increasing interferon production and reducing viral loads.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2025

MSU to create first-of-its-kind database for analyzing human remains

MSU is developing a computer program called MOSAIC to create holistic biological profiles from skeletal remains, making the investigative process clearer and more efficient. The project aims to leverage relationships between various structures to provide estimates without biasing results by focusing on individual components.

SourceMichigan State University·DateApr 21, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Evidence of cannibalism 18,000 years ago

Researchers discovered signs of human remains being manipulated and dissected, indicating cannibalism among Late Ice Age societies in Central Europe. The findings suggest that cannibalism may have occurred due to conflicts over resources or territories, rather than necessity.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 11, 2025

New strontium isotope map of Sub-Saharan Africa is a powerful tool for archaeology, forensics, and wildlife conservation

A new map reveals unique 'geologic fingerprints' across most of the African continent, enabling researchers to match artifacts and remains with their likely region of origin. The tool is particularly valuable for understanding human migration patterns, modern wildlife trafficking, and the history of the transatlantic slave trade.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 6, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A complex structure created by Neanderthals discovered in Gibraltar

A team of researchers from over 5 countries found a Neanderthal structure in Vanguard Cave, Gibraltar, that matches theoretical studies on anoxic heating. The discovery suggests Neanderthals had advanced cognitive abilities, including organization and practice to extract resin.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalQuaternary Science Reviews·DateNov 26, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Change in the law could help families of missing persons

A new law change proposal aims to provide families of missing persons with an opportunity for closure through burial, rather than cremation. The proposal, backed by expert research, would require DNA sampling before burial to confirm identity and enable family members to make decisions about the body.

SourceStaffordshire University·DateOct 29, 2024

Scientists turn to human skeletons to explore origins of horseback riding

Researchers found that horseback riding can subtly alter the shape of the hip joint, but these changes are not definitive proof of horse domestication. Human remains from various time periods show similar skeletal changes due to other activities, casting doubt on the Kurgan hypothesis.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 20, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Study: Proteins in tooth enamel offer window into human wellness

The study found a close correspondence between high levels of stress and disease in Indigenous populations and elevated immunoglobulins and C-reactive protein in their teeth. This new method provides a record of a person's health status from birth to early adulthood, offering valuable insights into past human experiences.

SourceUniversity of Alaska Fairbanks·JournalJournal of Archaeological Science·DateSep 19, 2024

Research reveals reality of Ice Age teen puberty

Researchers analyzed ancient human bones to assess puberty stages in 13 Ice Age teens, ages 10-20. Most entered puberty at 13.5 and reached adulthood between 17-22 years old.

SourceUniversity of Victoria·JournalJournal of Human Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 12, 2024