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Human Cultural Evolution Laboratory (HCE Lab)

Overview

The HCE Lab focuses on the cultural and technological evolution of prehistoric humans. Its mission is to reconstruct past ways of life, behaviors, and social structures through archaeological excavations, interdisciplinary lab work, and analytical methods applied at both macro and micro scales.

 

Main Research Areas

  • Lithic Technology – Study of ancient stone tool production, including technological and typological analyses, refitting, and experimental flintknapping.

  • Traceology (Use-Wear Analysis) – Microscopic analysis of wear patterns on artifacts to understand tool functions and usage.

  • Archaeometry – Application of physical and geochemical methods to trace the origin and treatment of archaeological materials.

  • Paleoanthropology – Investigation of death, burial, and symbolic practices in prehistoric societies.

Team

  • Prof. Yossi Zaidner – Lab Director. Specialist in Paleolithic archaeology and early human behavior.

  • Dr. Natalia Solodenko-Vernovsky – Lab Manager and Postdoctoral Fellow, expert in traceology and experimental archaeology.

  • Dr. Marion Prévost – Postdoctoral Fellow, expert in lithic refitting and technology.

  • Dr. Alice Rodriguez – Postdoctoral Fellow, specializes in lithic analysis and tool function.

  • Graduate Students – Engage in research topics such as ochre geochemistry, early flint industries, and burial practices.

 

Selected Projects

  • Nesher Ramla & Tinshemet Cave (Israel) – Middle Paleolithic sites with major discoveries including Homo Nesher Ramla and early burial evidence.

  • Soii Havzak (Tajikistan) – Multi-layered Paleolithic site offering insights into Central Asia’s prehistoric record.

  • Bizat Ruhama (Israel) – An early open-air Oldowan site reflecting initial human dispersals from Africa.

 

Additional Information

Lab findings are published in top journals and covered by international media. The HCE Lab is supported by major research grants and collaborates with leading institutions worldwide, contributing to global understanding of human prehistory and cultural development.