Dr Dirk Brandherm
Reader in Prehistoric Archaeology
School of Natural and Built Environment (NBE)
Dr Brandherm is an expert in Bronze and Iron-Age archaeology, with a focus on societal change and material culture.
Much of his research is concerned with exploring the dynamics of societal change in later prehistory, particularly in the Chalcolithic and in the Bronze and Iron Ages of Western Europe and the Mediterranean. Through the use of scientific dating techniques, he also works on refining the chronologies that inform our understanding of the processes underpinning these dynamics. Another focus of work is artefact studies, including the scientific analysis of archaeomaterials (primarily metal and ceramics).
Fields
Archaeology HistoryAreas of Expertise
Later prehistory of Europe and the Mediterranean
Media Experience
Dr Brandherm has wide experience of media including live and pre-record interviews for national TV, radio and documentaries along with interviews for online and print news and features
Notable coverage
https://www.rte.ie/news/leinster/2026/0108/1552039-wicklow-hillfort/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/clyw59v8978o
Hillfort is 'largest nucleated settlement' in prehistoric Ireland
Associated Research Centres / Projects
Archaeology & Palaeoecology at Queen’s: https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/NBE/Disciplines/archaeology-and-palaeoecology/
