About
Birgit Öhlinger is a Research Associate and Co-Excavation Director of the Monte Iato Project at the Leopold Franzens University of Innsbruck. Her work focuses on the archaeology of the ancient Mediterranean, particularly social transformation processes in cultural contact zones and identity formation through material culture, with a regional emphasis on Sicily.
Education:
- Doctoral studies in Classical and Provincial Roman Archaeology (2010–2014), University of Innsbruck
- Master’s in Ancient History and Classical Studies (2005–2009), University of Innsbruck
- Master’s in Classical and Provincial Roman Archaeology (2002–2008), University of Innsbruck
Research Interests:
Öhlinger specializes in the archaeology of cultural contact zones, ritual and religious practices, and ceramic studies in the Archaic Mediterranean. Her methodological expertise includes digital excavation documentation, experimental archaeology, and material culture analysis, particularly focusing on Monte Iato in Western Sicily.
Recent Publications:
Her work examines technological choices in local ceramic production, neutron activation analysis applications in Mediterranean archaeology, and ritual consumption practices. She has contributed to debates on cultural hybridity, social identity, and the role of sanctuaries in elite formation.
Awards:
- Anniversary Prize of Böhlau Verlag Vienna (2015)
- Prize of the Principality of Liechtenstein (2015)
- Merit Scholarship (2003–2007), University of Innsbruck
- Doctoral Scholarship (2013–2014), University of Innsbruck
Professional Activities:
Öhlinger leads projects like "Monte Iato Pots - Experimental Study on Organic Residue Analysis" and "Crime Scene Monte Iato around 500 BC: Microbiological Forensics". She organizes international conferences and contributes to public outreach through media appearances and exhibitions.
