Inga Merkyte

Inga Merkyte is a Researcher and Lecturer affiliated with the SAXO Institute (Archaeology, Ethnology, Greek and Latin, History) under the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Copenhagen. Her work focuses on interdisciplinary archaeological research, combining field excavation with genetic analysis to study ancient human societies.

Her research interests span archaeology, ancient DNA, and historical ecology, with emphasis on:

• Reconstructing past human-environment interactions through biomolecular data
• Analyzing migration patterns in Bronze Age Eurasia
• Investigating parasitic diseases in historical populations
• Decolonizing narratives of European colonialism in Africa

Merkyte's publications (2011–2019) demonstrate a consistent focus on high-impact collaborative projects. Her work in Nature and PLOS ONE reveals expertise in ancient DNA extraction methodologies applied to diverse contexts—from Eurasian steppe migrations to Danish Iron Age settlements. A thematic emphasis on population genetics, parasitic ecology, and colonial archaeology unites her portfolio, often utilizing cutting-edge genomic tools to reinterpret archaeological sites.