Stefan Milosevic | Archaeozoology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stefan Milosevic | Archaeozoology | Best Researcher Award

Research Associate at Department of Archaeology, Belgrade University, Serbia

Dr. Stefan Milošević is an accomplished research associate at the NEEMO project within the Faculty of Philosophy’s Laboratory for Bioarchaeology in Belgrade. With a PhD in archaeozoology, Stefan delves into Pleistocene-era interactions between humans and fauna, especially large carnivores. He combines meticulous field research—overseeing surveys and excavation campaigns across Serbia, Greece, and France—with laboratory expertise in taphonomy and SEM analysis. As a published author in leading journals like Quaternary International and Journal of Archaeological Science, he also contributes to international collaboration. Fluent in English and conversational in French, Stefan bridges Eastern and Western academic networks. In addition to his research, he has translated key archaeological texts from Serbian to English and engaged the public through exhibitions. His academic trajectory from BA to PhD and continuous postdoctoral contributions highlight his commitment to uncovering the deep past and shaping future archaeological understanding through multidisciplinary and cross-border engagement.

Professional Profiles📖

Scopus 

ORCID 

🎓 Education 

Dr. Milošević’s academic journey began with a BA in Archaeology from the University of Belgrade (2004–2009), where he laid the groundwork in prehistoric field methods. He then pursued a one-year MA (2010) at the Faculty of Philosophy, where his thesis on taphonomic patterns at Hadži‑Prodanova Pećina analyzed accumulation factors in palaeolithic cave contexts. His doctoral research (2011–2016), under the mentorship of Dr. Vesna Dimitrijević at Belgrade University, culminated in a PhD earned in October 2016. His dissertation, Competition for prey and habitat: Interactions between humans and large carnivores during Late Middle and Upper Palaeolithic in Central Balkans, examined human–carnivore dynamics using zooarchaeological and paleoecological data. Alongside fieldwork and lab methods training, he acquired a robust theoretical foundation in archaeozoology, taphonomy, and Pleistocene subsistence. Throughout his studies, Stefan engaged in interdisciplinary collaboration—working with geoarchaeologists and isotopic specialists—establishing a strong scholarly foundation for his ongoing research into ancient human-animal relationships.

🏗 Experience 

Dr. Milošević brings over a decade of research experience, having first contributed as an archaeozoologist on Serbia’s ON177023 project (2011–2017), investigating cultural transformations in Early Prehistory. Since 2021, he has been an integral part of the NEEMO project, funded by the Serbian Science Fund, collaborating with national and international experts. His field experience spans surveys—such as Lower and Middle Palaeolithic sites in the Morava River valley and Mesolithic contexts along the Iron Gates hinterlands—as well as methodical archaeological excavations across Serbia (e.g., Pešturina, Velika Balanica), Greece (Stelida Naxos), and France (Orgnac l’Aven). Stefan has overseen precise documentation, provenience control, GPS mapping, and systematic sampling. His sampling expertise covers C14/C/N isotope retrieval, sediment ESR/TL/OSL dating, dosimetry, and micromorphology, performed in collaboration with global specialists. In the lab, he is proficient in bone recovery methods and SEM microscopy. This blend of rigorous field methodology and multidisciplinary cooperation underpins his robust record of scientific contributions and academic leadership.

🏆 Awards & Honors 

Dr. Milošević’s academic trajectory is backed by significant early recognition. In 2009, he was awarded a prestigious LexS excellence scholarship from Leiden University for MA studies, ranking in the top 25%—a testament to his scholarly excellence. Although external funding limitations led to its return, the award demonstrates early international affirmation. In 2011, he received a PhD stipend from the Serbian Ministry of Science and Technological Development to support his doctoral research on Palaeolithic cultural changes in the Central Balkans. He has since contributed to high-profile grants, notably as a research associate in the NEEMO project, funded by Serbia’s Science Fund through its competitive Ideas program. His work is featured in peer-reviewed publications—some co-authored with top-tier teams—and he has been invited to speak at international conferences (ICAQ, EAA, SAA). Curatorial recognition came through his participation in regional exhibitions, further illustrating his role in knowledge dissemination beyond academia. Stefan’s honors reflect both individual promise and collaborative excellence.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Milošević’s research is anchored in archaeozoology, emphasizing Pleistocene human–faunal dynamics. He investigates how humans and large carnivores competed for prey and habitat during the Late Middle and Upper Palaeolithic in the Central Balkans. His work explores taphonomic signatures, marrow extraction patterns, and bone processing methods—offering insights into prehistoric dietary strategies, including neonatal consumption and bird exploitation. He applies interdisciplinary techniques: stable isotope analysis, ESR/TL/OSL dating, sediment micromorphology, and SEM microscopy—integrating zooarchaeological with geo-chronological data. Projects like Pešturina and Velika Balanica inform understanding of Neanderthal vs. Homo sapiens behavior and ecological shifts. His recent studies on Palaeolithic bone flutes highlight cognitive and technological engagement. Collaborating with international experts, his work spans Serbia to France and Greece. By linking paleoecology, subsistence behavior, and taphonomic patterns, Stefan addresses broader questions in human evolution, resource use, and adaptive strategies. His current NEEMO involvement expands this framework, focusing on Neanderthal–modern human interactions in the Central Balkans during MIS 5–7.

🛠 Skills 

Dr. Milošević’s expert skillset spans field, lab, and analytical domains. In field research, he is proficient in survey design, GPS mapping, stratigraphic excavation, provenience documentation, and systematic sampling across cave and open‑air Palaeolithic sites. His excavation portfolio includes sites in Serbia, Greece, and France, involving multi-season campaigns. In the lab, he excels in osseous tissue recovery, SEM microscopy for taphonomic trace analysis, and executing isotope sampling (C14, C/N) alongside sediment dating techniques (ESR, TL, OSL). He is trained in sediment micromorphology and collaborates on precise dosimetry protocols. His analytical acumen includes zooarchaeological classification, taphonomic interpretation, GIS methods, and quantitative data analysis. He is versed in cross-disciplinary techniques—integrating palaeoecological, geoarchaeological, and archaeological datasets. Communication-wise, he is fluent in English, proficient in French, and adept in academic translation from Serbian to English. He has presented at international conferences and contributed to exhibitions. His collaborative experience with global labs and institutes underscores his competence in leading and contributing to multifaceted research environments.

Publications Top Notes

📄 Applicability of Radiomics for Differentiation of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma from Healthy Tissue of Pancreas by Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Machine Learning

  • Source:Cancers (MDPI)

  • Published: March 27, 2025

  • DOI: 10.3390/cancers17071119

 

📄 Endovascular Treatment of Femoro‑Popliteal Disease with the Supera Stent: A Single Center Experience

  • Source:Journal of Clinical Medicine (MDPI)

  • Published: March 3, 2025

  • DOI: 10.3390/jcm14051704

 

📄 Appendiceal Intussusception: A Rare Diagnosis and the Role of Imaging in Its Detection

  • Source:Diagnostics (MDPI)

  • Published: January 23, 2025

  • DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics15030256

 

📄 The Importance of Early Detection and Minimally Invasive Treatment of Pseudoaneurysms Due to Chronic Pancreatitis: Case Report

  • Source: Medicina (MDPI)

  • Published: April 26, 2024

  • DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050714

 

📄 “Bezoar Egg”—A Rare Cause of Small Bowel Obstruction

  • Journal:Diagnostics (MDPI)

  • Published: February 2024

  • DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14040360

 

📄 Extreme Leukocytosis and Gangrenous Cholecystitis Associated with Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC‑Treated Mucinos Ovary Cancer: Case Report and Literature Review

  • Journal:Clinics and Practice (MDPI)

  • Published: September 18, 2023

  • DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13050102

 

📄 Spontaneous Cholecystocutaneous Fistula: A Rare Complication of Chronic Cholecystitis

  • Journal:Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery (Springer)

  • Published: July 2022

  • DOI: 10.1007/s11605-022-05262-8

 

📄 Total Pancreatectomy for Multicentric Cystic Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Pancreas: A Case Report

  • Journal:Diagnostics (MDPI)

  • Published: April 15, 2022

  • DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12041003

 

📄 Ectopic Thyroid Nodes in the Mediastinum – Report of Two Cases

  • Journal:Srpski arhiv za celokupno lekarstvo

  • Published: 2022

  • DOI: 10.2298/sarh210828022d

 

📄 Aggressive Fibromatosis of the Right Colon Mimicking a Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumour: A Case Report

  • Journal:Journal of International Medical Research

  • Published: March 2021

  • DOI: 10.1177/0300060521994927

 

📄 Giant Pseudoaneurysm of the Splenic Artery within Walled‑off Pancreatic Necrosis on the Grounds of Chronic Pancreatitis

  • Journal:Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases International

  • Published: February 2021

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2020.02.012

 

📄 Successful Embolization of Posterior Inferior Pancreaticoduodenal Artery Pseudoaneurysm in Chronic Pancreatitis—Case Report and Literature Review

  • Journal:Medicina (MDPI)

  • Published: November 16, 2020

  • DOI: 10.3390/medicina56110617

 

📄 Notch Sign in Renal Angiomyolipoma

  • Journal:Abdominal Radiology (Springer)

  • Published: April 2020

  • DOI: 10.1007/s00261-020-02418-5

 

Conclusion✅

Johanna Sigl | Traceology in Zooarchaeology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Johanna Sigl | Traceology in Zooarchaeology | Best Researcher Award

 Academic Research Fellow at Commission for Archaeology of non-European Cultures (KAAK), Germany

Dr. Johanna Sigl is a distinguished Egyptologist and archaeozoologist specializing in zooarchaeological research within ancient Egyptian contexts. Born on April 8, 1981, in Munich, she has dedicated her career to exploring the relationship between humans and animals in antiquity. With extensive experience in fieldwork, academic teaching, and research coordination, she has contributed significantly to archaeological projects in Egypt. She is the lead zooarchaeologist at Ancient Egypt Research Associates (AERA) and an associated lecturer at Ain Shams University, Cairo. Dr. Sigl has also played a crucial role in the German Archaeological Institute’s projects, particularly on Elephantine Island. Her work spans excavation management, data analysis, and scientific publication. Recognized for her academic excellence, she has received prestigious awards, including the PhD Prize from Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich. Her contributions to archaeology and archaeozoology continue to enhance the understanding of ancient societies and their environments.

Professional Profiles📖

ORCID

🎓 Education 

Dr. Sigl pursued her PhD in Egyptology and Archaeozoology at Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU) between 2006 and 2014, earning summa cum laude honors and the faculty’s doctoral award in 2015. Her interdisciplinary research integrated zooarchaeological analysis with historical and archaeological contexts. Prior to her doctorate, she completed a Magister Artium (MA) at LMU, majoring in Egyptology with minors in Coptology and Paleoanatomy (final grade: 1.45). She developed her scientific foundation at Gymnasium München/Moosach, graduating with an Abitur (overall grade: 2.4) in 2000, where she focused on mathematics and science. Her education laid the groundwork for her expertise in bioarchaeology, excavation methodologies, and interdisciplinary research. Through academic training and field experience, she became proficient in analyzing ancient faunal remains and contributing to archaeological interpretations. Dr. Sigl’s education continues to inform her research and teaching, bridging ancient history and modern scientific approaches.

🏗 Experience 

Dr. Sigl has extensive experience in archaeology and zooarchaeology. Since 2023, she has been the lead zooarchaeologist at AERA, Cairo, analyzing faunal materials and training Egyptian colleagues. She also lectures at Ain Shams University, creating curricula for zooarchaeological studies. Previously, she coordinated the DFG-funded priority program “Entangled Africa” (2019–2025) at the Commission for Archaeology of Non-European Cultures (KAAK), overseeing interdisciplinary research initiatives. Since 2014, she has directed the “Realities of Life” project on Elephantine Island under the German Archaeological Institute, focusing on ancient Egyptian lifestyles. She has also managed archaeological excavations, public relations, and academic programs at the German Archaeological Institute (2014–2019). Earlier in her career, she worked on excavation projects in Germany, Egypt, and Greece, contributing to fieldwork, bone analysis, and data management. Her diverse experience reflects a deep commitment to research, education, and heritage conservation.

🏆 Awards & Honors 

Dr. Sigl’s academic excellence has been recognized through prestigious awards and grants. In 2015, she received the PhD Prize from the Faculty of Cultural Studies at LMU Munich for her outstanding dissertation. She was awarded a PhD scholarship (2010–2012) under the Bayerischen Eliteförderungsgesetz, supporting exceptional doctoral research in Bavaria. In 2016, she secured the Newton-Mosharafa Research Grant as a co-investigator in a project exploring fossil insects and environmental preservation at Egyptian archaeological sites, in collaboration with the University of Edinburgh. These honors reflect her contributions to the fields of archaeozoology, Egyptology, and interdisciplinary archaeological research. Her work has been instrumental in advancing knowledge about ancient Egyptian environments, human-animal interactions, and cultural developments. Through her research, Dr. Sigl continues to shape the understanding of ancient civilizations and the methodologies used in bioarchaeological studies.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Sigl’s research revolves around archaeozoology, human-animal interactions, and ancient Egyptian economic and environmental systems. She investigates faunal remains from archaeological sites to reconstruct dietary habits, trade, and socio-economic structures. Her work on Elephantine Island explores domestic and wild animal use, reflecting broader ecological and cultural shifts. She also examines fish processing and textile production, linking material culture with everyday life in ancient settlements. Another key focus is sustainable research data management, ensuring archaeological findings are accessible for future studies. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, she integrates scientific analysis with historical narratives, shedding light on the complexities of ancient societies. Her involvement in projects like “Entangled Africa” highlights transregional connections in antiquity. Dr. Sigl’s research contributes to broader discussions on resource management, economic networks, and the evolution of human-animal relationships in the ancient world.

🛠 Skills 

Dr. Sigl possesses a diverse skill set spanning archaeology, bioarchaeology, and academic coordination. She is an expert in zooarchaeological analysis, specializing in faunal identification, taphonomy, and dietary reconstructions. She excels in excavation management, having led fieldwork at key sites like Elephantine Island. Her academic contributions include curriculum development and university-level teaching in archaeozoology. She is proficient in scientific data management, ensuring sustainable access to research findings. Additionally, she has expertise in grant writing and project coordination, managing interdisciplinary teams and research funding. Her public engagement skills extend to museum collaborations, heritage conservation initiatives, and archaeological outreach programs. She is also experienced in publication editing, having authored numerous articles and books on Egyptology. Dr. Sigl’s ability to merge scientific methodologies with cultural research makes her a valuable contributor to the fields of archaeology and bioarchaeology.

Publications Top Notes📚

1️⃣ Fish processing along the Nile. A shell tool from the Middle Kingdom of Elephantine Island, Egypt
📅 2025 | 🏛 Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports
🔗 DOI: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2024.104908

2️⃣ e-Jahresbericht 2023 des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts – Abteilung Kairo
📅 2024 | 🏛 e-Jahresberichte des DAI
🔗 DOI: 10.34780/8TEY-32EW

3️⃣ e-Jahresbericht 2023 des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts – KAAK
📅 2024 | 🏛 e-Jahresberichte des DAI
🔗 DOI: 10.34780/23YS-CZV9

4️⃣ Knotenpunkte und Grenzen
📅 2024 | 🏛 Antike Welt, 55
🔗 Zenon Record

5️⃣ Fährten aus Holz, Keramik und Papier
📅 2023 | 🏛 Blickpunkt Archäologie
🔗 Zenon Record

6️⃣ Introduction – Daily life in ancient Egyptian settlements
📅 2022 | 🏛 Conference Aswan 2019
🔗 Zenon Record

7️⃣ Made on Elephantine Island
📅 2022 | 🏛 Daily life in ancient Egyptian settlements
🔗 Zenon Record

8️⃣ Of Bugs and Beads
📅 2022 | 🏛 Spuren der altägyptischen Gesellschaft: Festschrift für Stephan J. Seidlmayer
🔗 Zenon Record

9️⃣ Reconstructing the pit-loom used in the first millennium CE in Upper Egypt based on archaeological evidence
📅 2022 | 🏛 Das Pauloskloster (Deir el-Bachît) in den Bergen von Djeme/Oberägypten
🔗 Zenon Record

🔟 South of the Sahara, Africa – Entangled Africa
📅 2021 | 🏛 e-Forschungsberichte des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts
🔗 DOI: 10.34780/81p5-8515

1️⃣1️⃣ Elephantine, Ägypten – Neues zu Lebenswirklichkeiten (Projekt »Realities of Life«) im späten Mittleren Reich am ersten Nilkatarakt
📅 2020 | 🏛 e-Forschungsberichte des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts
🔗 DOI: 10.34780/efb.v0i3.1001

1️⃣2️⃣ La vie quotidienne à Éléphantine. Alimentation, activités et conditions de vie des habitants d’une maison
📅 2019 | 🏛 Dossiers d’Archéologie
📜 ISSN: 9771141713005

1️⃣3️⃣ Stadt und Tempel von Elephantine – Methodological approach to the project “Realities of Life”
📅 2018 | 🏛 Mitteilungen des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts Abteilung Kairo

1️⃣4️⃣ Elephantine, Ägypten – Gesamtprojekt und Teilprojekt Lebenswirklichkeiten (Realities of Life). Die Arbeiten des Jahres 2016 bis Sommer 2017
📅 2017 | 🏛 e-Forschungsberichte des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts
🔗 DOI: 10.34780/f10b-wa1z

1️⃣5️⃣ Kairo, Ägypten: Unterrichtsmaterialien zur ägyptischen Archäologie
📅 2017 | 🏛 e-Forschungsberichte des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts
🔗 DOI: 10.34780/gd71-b070

1️⃣6️⃣ Lebenswirklichkeiten. Ein Neuansatz für die Ausgrabungsarbeiten des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts Kairo auf Elephantine/Assuan
📅 2014 | 🏛 Mitteilungen des Deutschen Archäologischen Instituts Abteilung Kairo