Dineo Masia
PhD Candidate
Evolutionary Studies Institute, University of the Witwatersrand
Biography
I am a PhD candidate with a background in Archaeology and Geology. My research focuses on understanding the behaviour of early humans in relation to stone tools during the Middle Stone Age (MSA) and Later Stone Age (LSA) in South Africa. Lithics are remnants of ancient behaviour and are great for reconstructing it!
Disciplines
Paleoanthropology, Archaeology, Geology
Fields of study
My project examines the procurement strategies employed to acquire lithic raw materials at Border Cave (BC) during the post-Howieson's Poort (PHP) and 'Early Later Stone Age' ('ELSA') periods. Statistical analysis of geochemical and petrographic data from geological samples and lithics will be conducted to identify and compare the strategies and technologies utilised between the two periods. The relationship between technology and lithic raw materials will also be investigated. By focusing on these two periods at BC, this project aims to enhance our understanding of the Middle Stone Age (MSA) and the Later Stone Age (LSA), and their significance for early human development.
