Nyree J Finlay

Dr Nyree J Finlay is a Senior Lecturer in Archaeology at the University of Glasgow, affiliated with the School of Humanities. Her research focuses on prehistoric archaeology, material culture, and lithic technology, with specialties in Mesolithic studies, hunter-gatherer societies, and avocational archaeological practices. She leads initiatives such as Ancestral Studies and the Avocational Atelier project, exploring historical and contemporary collection practices. Key projects include the Colonsay Middens excavation, Lough Boora post-excavation work, and studies on infant mortality and childhood in prehistoric contexts.

Research Interests:

• Material culture theory and practice
• Lithic technology and chaîne opératoire analysis
• Hunter-gatherer social organization and gender studies
• Avocational archaeological collections and methodologies
• Archaeology of infancy and disability

Recent Research Trends: Dr Finlay's work bridges theoretical frameworks with empirical studies, emphasizing collaborative approaches to archaeological interpretation. Recent articles explore contemporary domestic archaeology, Bronze Age burial practices, and the intersection of memory and materiality in dementia studies.

Grants & Supervision:

• Lead supervisor for 12+ PhD students across Mesolithic, Bronze Age, and museum studies topics
• Funded projects include Royal Society of Edinburgh grants and College of Arts initiatives

Teaching & Outreach: Convenes Material Culture and Artefact Studies programs, contributes to public engagement through exhibitions (e.g., Kirkcaldy Bronze Age pop-ups) and workshops with community partners.