What's the episode about?
In this episode we are talking about what can be gleaned from skulls, skeletons and individual bones: how to distinguish human material from animal material, how to determine sex and age, and what injuries or diseases leave marks on bones. There are also high-profile local stories from Lodz i.e., unexpected finds of human remains during construction work and years of archaeological research related to Nazi and Communist crimes.
Dr Beata Borowska is also discussing modern tools (from ground-penetrating radar and drones to machine-assisted data analysis), isotope and genetic research, and facial reconstructions based solely on existing skulls. Finally, we travel to Peru, where research is conducted under exceptionally difficult conditions, and fieldwork can be a true test of character and determination.
“Science Inspires” podcast
The podcast was produced in the Radio Łódź studio. The conversations were hosted jointly by Michał Gruda and Radio Łódź journalist Joanna Karp.
The video was made as part of the "Lodz for Young People" programme, run by the Marshal's Office in Lodz.
Edit: Michał Gruda (Centre for External Relations and Social Responsibility of the University, University of Lodz)
