Research Affiliate
Dr Michael Gantley’s research focuses on the statistical modelling of past populations through the application of AI techniques.
Throughout my career, I have actively engaged in a multitude of international archaeological and anthropological projects—including a holding teaching position at Choeung Ek Genocidal Centre, Cambodia. These experiences have afforded me the opportunity to cultivate a profound comprehension of diverse cultures. My proficiency in advanced statistical analysis and modelling techniques enables me to derive meaningful insights into past populations, helping to bridge the gap between the archaeological record and our understanding of human history.
I am committed to harnessing data-driven approaches to illuminate intricate socio-cognitive inquiries related to pivotal transitions in human history. My overarching objective is to advance our comprehension of human social cohesion.
My academic background encompasses a Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University College Cork and a National University of Ireland funded Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) from the University of Oxford, with a focus on Cognitive Archaeology. Subsequently, I pursued post-doctoral research appointments at the College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter and the School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford. In addition, I have held a number of data management, project management and delivery lead roles in the AI SME ecosystem.
My current research combines archaeology, statistical modelling and cognitive anthropology to produce novel perspectives on the evolution of social cohesion during the agricultural transition in the Levant, Anatolia and North-western Europe via examining the impact of ritual on the evolution of social complexity during the shift from hunting and gathering to agriculture.
