Dr. Anna Källén

Biography

Anna Källén is a Professor at Umeå University, specializing in Museology and Archaeology, with a focus on critical heritage studies. She has devoted her career to investigating the connections between the past and contemporary society through the lens of archaeology, particularly concerning how ancient DNA influences modern identities. Källén's recent research investigates the implications of genetic methodologies for understanding historical identities, particularly concerning prehistoric aDNA and commercial ancestry testing. Her academic background includes a PhD from Uppsala University, awarded in 2004 for her doctoral thesis on archaeology in Laos. Over the years, she has conducted significant research projects, including an interdisciplinary project funded by the Riksbankens Jubileumsfond, exploring the complexities of archaeology in the 20th century. Källén has also contributed extensively to the academic community through her publications, including books and articles addressing various themes within archaeology and heritage practices. Her work has been recognized internationally, and she participated as a Visiting Fellow at University College London. Beyond her academic endeavors, Källén engages with the public through teaching, mentoring PhD students, and editorial contributions to relevant journals. She has lectured widely in multiple countries, communicating her research in various media formats.

Research Interests

Experience