Dougald O'Reilly

Professor Dougald O'Reilly is a leading archaeologist specializing in Southeast Asian prehistory and heritage preservation. He holds a Professorship at The Australian National University's School of Archaeology & Anthropology. His research focuses on the rise of complex societies, particularly in Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand, with notable projects investigating the Plain of Jars in Laos and Iron Age settlements. He founded Heritage Watch in 2003 to combat heritage destruction in Cambodia, which runs education programs like Heritage for Kids.

Education:

• B.A. in Archaeology, Brock University (1993)
• P.G. Dip., M.A., and Ph.D. in Archaeology, University of Otago (1996-1999)

Research Interests:

• Prehistory of Southeast Asia
• Rise of Complex Societies
• Archaeological Theory
• Megalithic Jar Sites
• Heritage Preservation

Recent Research Trends: His recent articles (2020–2025) emphasize multidisciplinary approaches to understanding Iron Age mobility, bioarchaeological health analysis, and the cultural significance of megalithic jar sites. Collaborations with Lao and Indian archaeologists highlight transnational research on prehistoric burial practices.

Awards:

• ANU Vice-Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Education (2018)
• PATA Gold Award for Best Guide Book (2018)
• ANU College of Arts Award for Enhancing Learning (2015)

Grants & Projects:

• Lead researcher on the 'Megalithic Connections' project (2023–2026)
• UNESCO collaborations in Cambodia (2001–present)

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with international teams on the Plain of Jars UNESCO World Heritage Site, focusing on preservation and excavation.