Emily Johana Ruiz Puerta

Emily Johana Ruiz Puerta is a Postdoctoral Researcher at the ArcHeritage department within the Faculty of Arts at the University of Groningen, with a guest researcher position at the Globe Institute (University of Copenhagen). Her work focuses on paleogenomics, ancient DNA (aDNA), and isotopic analysis applied to Arctic ecosystems and marine mammals, particularly walruses. She holds an MSc in Sustainability from AgroParisTech/MNHN and a BSc in Biology from Universidad Cayetano Heredia, Peru.

Her research explores genetic adaptations in species through ecological and archaeological lenses, with a special emphasis on human-animal-environment interactions. Key affiliations include the Arctic Centre (Groningen) and the SeaChanges EU project. She collaborates with Arctic Indigenous communities to study historical resource utilization and its implications for sustainable futures.

Recent publications highlight studies on Norse walrus exploitation, Baltic harp seal genetics, and Atlantic walrus population dynamics. Media engagements include discussions on Viking ivory trade routes and Arctic climate impacts. Emily’s work bridges ancient genomic data with modern conservation efforts, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches in Arctic anthropology and archaeology.