Dr. Teri Hansford

Biography

Teri Hansford is a Research Fellow at the University of Warwick's School of Life Sciences. Her research is primarily focused on the reconstruction of past environments through the analysis of sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA). Currently, she is engaged in reconstructing the paleoenvironment of Bouldnor Cliff, a submerged Mesolithic forest located off the coast of the Isle of Wight. Teri's work is conducted within a dedicated ancient DNA facility, where she employs a variety of next-generation sequencing techniques, including NextSeq and NovaSeq. A significant aspect of her research involves understanding sedaDNA taphonomy, which includes studying the processes that affect the deposition and retention of DNA in the environment, crucial for accurately reconstructing past ecosystems. In addition to her specific projects, her broader research interests encompass the application of ancient DNA analysis to British history. Throughout her scientific career, Teri has worked at various historical sites, including the Mary Rose wreckage and the Stonehenge landscape. Her Master's research involved ancient DNA analysis of cattle associated with the sailors of the Mary Rose to investigate their ancestry and food sources, while her PhD project focused on sedaDNA analysis of pits surrounding the Neolithic monument of Durrington Walls to gain insights into the paleoenvironment.

Research Interests