Dr Leonardo Carmignani is a postdoctoral researcher in the Neanderthal Legacy research project.

More information about Leonardo Carmignani

Office days

Monday to Friday

Research

My fascination lies in the realm of human technology and its evolutionary dynamics. Currently, my research is primarily dedicated to generating novel data that contribute to the ongoing discussions surrounding the possible cultural interactions between Neanderthals, our closest extinct relatives, and modern humans.

Teaching activities

I teach in the Bachelor's program, focusing on the topics of human technological evolution and the methods employed in stone tool studies.  I also offer internships and co-supervise BA students.

Curriculum vitae

In 2011, I received my  Ph.D. from the University of Siena and Nanterre University, exploring the Neanderthal technological behavior in the Italian peninsula during the Late Middle Paleolithic.
I pursue my research in Spain (IPHES) and France (IPH), undertaking further research on blade and bladelet technology in the Middle Paleolithic within a second international Ph.D.
I actively participate in several excavation projects across various locations. These include Melka Kunture in Ethiopia, Abris du Maras and Les Cottes in France, Atapuerca in Spain, as well as several sites in Italy.
From 2014 and 2016, I conducted field excavation as a principal investigator at Grotta Mario Bernardini (Italy).
Since September 2020, I have held the position of senior researcher in the VICI (NWO) project titled "Neandertal Legacy: Contacts and Interactions in Europe 40,000 years ago," led by Professor M.A. Soressi.

Publications