Bernt Rundberget

Bernt Rundberget serves as Head of Department at the Department of Archaeology and Cultural History, NTNU University Museum, Norwegian University of Science and Technology. His academic career spans over two decades with a focus on archaeological research, particularly in the field of iron production and metallurgy in Norway. He maintains an active research profile with numerous publications and academic engagements.

Rundberget completed his doctoral dissertation titled "Jernets dunkle dimensjon. Jernvinna i sørlige Hedmark. Sentral økonomisk faktor og premiss for samfunnsutvikling c. AD 700 – 1300" at the University of Oslo in 2013. Earlier, he completed his Master's thesis "Teknologi og Jernvinne. En teoretisk og metodisk tilnærming til jernvinna som kilde for menneskelig kunnskap og handling" at NTNU's Museum of Natural History and Archaeology in 2002.

Dr. Rundberget's research primarily focuses on archaeometallurgy, with special emphasis on iron production in Norway during the Iron Age and Medieval periods. His work explores the technological aspects of bloomery ironmaking, examining furnace typology, chronological development, and regional variations. He has conducted extensive field research in Gråfjell and other regions of southeastern Norway, investigating charcoal production pits, iron smelting sites, and associated settlements. His research demonstrates how iron production served as a central economic factor and prerequisite for societal development from approximately AD 700-1300.

His recent publications show a continued focus on iron production technology while expanding into comparative studies with Latvia and other regions. Rundberget has also engaged with broader archaeological topics including Viking Age studies, urban archaeology (particularly medieval towns like Veøya), and cultural heritage management, especially regarding rock art preservation in Norway.

As Head of Department, Rundberget oversees academic and research activities at the Department of Archaeology and Cultural History. He has supervised numerous students and research projects, particularly in the fields of archaeometallurgy and cultural history. His leadership extends to professional organizations and collaborations with international researchers in the field of historical metallurgy.

Rundberget maintains active involvement in public outreach, contributing to newspaper articles and interviews about archaeological discoveries and cultural heritage issues. He has participated in symposia and conferences both nationally and internationally, presenting on early iron production in Norway and its significance for understanding societal development.