Anne Birgitte Gotfredsen

Anne Birgitte Gotfredsen is a Senior Researcher at the Section for Geogenetics within the Globe Institute at the University of Copenhagen. Her research focuses on Quaternary Zoology and Archaeozoology, with particular expertise in the faunal history of Greenland and Danish prehistoric sites.

Her primary research interests include:

• Quaternary Zoology, particularly the prehistoric avifauna of Greenland with special emphasis on geese genera Anser & Branta
• Archaeozoology of Danish prehistoric sites from the Iron Age, Viking Age, and Middle Ages
• Analysis of animal bones from graves and ritual contexts
• Understanding cultural strategies applied by native cultures in the High Arctic environment
• Integration of genomic approaches with traditional zooarchaeological methods

Gotfredsen's recent publications reveal a consistent focus on Arctic environmental history and human-animal relationships through time, utilizing advanced genomic techniques to analyze ancient biological materials. Her work bridges archaeology, zoology, genetics, and climate science to address questions about paleo-ecological reconstructions, zoogeography, and climatic changes.

Notable research projects include:

• Rituals and Pre-Christian Cult (2011-2014): An interdisciplinary research program on pagan religion of the Iron Age and Viking Age at the National Museum of Denmark
• GeoArk (2007-2010): An International Polar Year initiative exploring High Arctic environmental dynamics and cultural strategies of native cultures in North East Greenland

Her work has received considerable attention across academic and public spheres, with publications being widely disseminated through news outlets, social media, and academic networks.