William O'Brien

Professor William O'Brien is Professor of Archaeology at University College Cork, specializing in Irish and European prehistory with expertise in Bronze Age copper mining, hillforts, and settlement landscapes. His fieldwork includes 30+ excavation projects across southwest Ireland, redefining understanding of prehistoric metallurgy and social structures.

Research examines Chalcolithic/Bronze Age metal-using societies (2500-600 BC), particularly early copper mines like Ross Island and Mount Gabriel. Publications include seminal works on prehistoric mining in Europe and Irish hillfort societies. Recent projects analyze warfare in Late Bronze Age Ireland and coastal promontory forts.

Honors:

• Elected Member, Royal Irish Academy
• Fellow of Society of Antiquaries of London
• Higher Doctorate (DLitt)

• PhD Archaeology, University College Cork
• MA Archaeology, University College Cork