I am a South African–born archaeologist and Chevening Scholar alumna who is currently completing my PhD at Liverpool John Moores University.
My doctoral research focuses on clandestine grave location, specifically by optimising two complementary approaches to locate graves using UAV based remote sensing and the grave soil microbiome. My work sits at the intersection of archaeology, geoforensics and forensic ecology. Drawing on my own experience and several collaborations, the aim is to ensure these approaches can support real world forensic practice.
Over the past fourteen years, I have worked across commercial and academic settings as an archaeologist in both South Africa and England. I am an Accredited CRM Archaeologist with the Association of Southern African Professional Archaeologists. My field experience includes archaeological surveys, excavation (of Stone age, Iron Age and Historical Period sites), Grave Relocation and Stakeholder engagement, as well as leading field teams and contributing to interdisciplinary approaches that support heritage management.
My skill set includes the excavation and analysis of archaeological material (such as pottery), bioarchaeology, soil sampling, eDNA extraction and molecular analysis.
Teaching and mentoring are central to my work, and I value helping students and early career researchers develop confidence, clarity and scientific curiosity. I am an Associate Fellow of Advance HE (AFHEA) and SEDA Recognised for Supporting Learning. I have also led and supported student seminars and laboratory practicals at the University of Pretoria (South Africa) and at Liverpool John Moores University (England).
Alongside my technical writing and academic research, I write about PhD life and productivity on my Substack BruynChild (pronounced brainchild). I also contribute to The Observatory Human Birdges and the Science Communication blog Research Hive.
My research interests are grave science, forensic taphonomy, Egyptian archaeology and burial archaeology
