Thursday, December 18, 2025

DNA in the news: Beachy Head Woman from Roman Britain

A new article in the Journal of Archaeological Science (17 December 2025) details new DNA findings on skeleton from Southern England that has been dated to 129-311 CE. It's an interesting publication showing how new DNA analysis techniques can challenge and change previous determinations. 

The skeleton was found in the collection of the Eastbourne Town Hall in 2012 (possibly moved there in 1959), and initially believed to be sub-Saharan African in origin. In 2024 an updated DNA method was used, and the researchers also used Unreal Engine (the same computer technology behind popular online games such as Fortnite) to generate a new digital likeness for the woman. Based on the new information, the researchers have determined that Beachy Head Woman came from Roman-era southern Britain.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.