Frankie Tait
Areas of interest
- Palaeoproteomics
- ZooMS
- Biomolecular Archaeology and Anthropology.
Research centres and groups
COEXISTResearch projects
Maximising data from fragmented bone to understand the coexistence of late Neanderthals and early Homo sapiens in Europe using Palaeoproteomics
Project COEXIST will focus on maximising the potential of fragmented bone to gain novel insights into the coexistence of Neanderthals and Homo sapiens in central and southeast Europe. Recent studies of ancient DNA have demonstrated that we interbred with Neanderthals however, the chronological and geographical extent is poorly understood. COEXIST will apply biomolecular archaeology to reconstruct Neanderthal-Homo sapiens interaction to understand how we became the only human species in the world. The method of Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry (ZooMS) will be applied to 14,000 bone samples from 55-45,000 years old and used to identify new human remains through their bone collagen. Through a multidisciplinary approach we hope to shift current views on the behavioural and population dynamics and replacements in our deep past. Project COEXIST was selected by the ERC and is funded by the UKRI.
Supervisors:
Karen Ruebens (University of Reading)
Frido Welker (University of Copenhagen)
Helen Fewlass (University of Bristol)
Background
I hold a First Class BSc in Forensic Science from Bournemouth University. My dissertation studied the taphonomic changes on the surface of bones caused by freeze-thaw weathering. I have several years’ experience working with biomolecular techniques and have applied these in the fields of Forensics, Ancient DNA and Palaeoproteomics. Most recently I worked as a research scientist at The Francis Crick Institute in the ancient genomics and proteomics laboratory collaborating with archaeologists globally. I am a member of scientific communities such as PAASTA – Palaeoproteomics and Archaeology Society for Techniques and Advances. I have a special interest in Public Engagement and have been fortunate to partake in podcasts and even some filming during my time at The Crick. I also give talks to all groups that may be interested but with a focus on supporting Women in STEM.