Aidan O'Sullivan

Professor Aidan O'Sullivan is Head of School and Professor in the School of Archaeology at University College Dublin. He holds a BA (UCD), MA (UCD), and PhD (NUI Maynooth) in Archaeology. His research focuses on early medieval Ireland, wetland archaeology, and experimental archaeology. He leads the Early Medieval and Viking Age Research Group (EMVARG) and co-directs the UCD Centre for Experimental Archaeology and Material Culture (CEAMC). He has supervised over 15 PhD and 40 MA students, including notable scholars like Ryan Lash and Barry Molloy. Key awards include MRIA membership (2017), FSA (London), and the CBA Archaeological Achievements Award (2021).

Research interests include early medieval settlement patterns, wetland environments, and experimental archaeology. Major projects include the Early Medieval Archaeology Project (EMAP), which produced seminal works like Early Medieval Ireland, AD 400-1100 (2021). Teaching includes modules on experimental archaeology, field methods, and early medieval studies. Professional roles include editorial board memberships (e.g., Journal of Wetland Archaeology), and international advisory roles (e.g., ERC, EXARC).

Grants total over €3M, including INSTAR funding for EMAP. His work integrates archaeology with environmental and historical data, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. He has conducted excavations at Templeteenaun, Coolure Demesne, and Clonmacnoise, and collaborates globally on projects like the Submerged Landscapes Archaeological Network (SLAN).