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In our lab, we use ancient DNA (aDNA) to investigate evolutionary and historical processes in both animal and human populations. Ancient DNA refers to genetic material extracted from the remains of organisms that lived hundreds to thousands of years ago, typically recovered during paleontological or archaeological excavations. Unlike studies based solely on modern genomes, ancient DNA research allows for the direct observation of genetic changes through time, leading to more precise insights into evolutionary processes and population dynamics.
Our team currently includes three senior researchers, six students, and a laboratory manager, and our work is primarily funded by the Polish National Science Center. We operate a fully equipped clean laboratory optimized for handling highly contamination-sensitive samples and have refined protocols for DNA extraction and library preparation. These methods enable us to sequence genomes from exceptionally old materials, sometimes over 100,000 years old, such as samples from the renowned Denisova Cave.
Our research explores the evolutionary and population histories of ancient animals through genetic, archaeological, and environmental evidence. We study species across a wide ecological spectrum, from small mammals like voles, bats, hamsters, and ground squirrels to large mammals such as bears, deer, and woolly rhinoceroses, as well as intermediate species like cats. Together, these studies help us understand how species evolved, interacted with humans, and responded to past climate change.
On the human side, we are involved in several projects across Europe, with a particular focus on the population history of human groups inhabiting the territory of modern-day Poland from the Bronze Age onwards. Using genome-wide data from archaeological remains, we study past population movements, interactions, and admixture events in a region that has long served as a crossroads of trade, migration, and warfare.
We are actively collaborating with researchers worldwide, engaging in multidisciplinary ancient animal research that bridges archeology, anthropology, evolution, ecology, and conservation. We are always open to new collaborations that contribute to a deeper understanding of our shared evolutionary past.
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