Between 2017 to 2024, FINDER analysed over 12,000 bone fragments from 18 sites across several countries (Russia, China, Armenia, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, Germany). From this material, we recovered 44 new human fossils from 7 sites (Denisova Cave, Ust Karakol, Russia; Vogelherd Cave; Germany; Nombe Cave, Kiowa Cave, Yuku Rockshelter and Tsak Pumakos Cave in Papua New Guinea). Genetic and dating analyses showed that at least 3 of the Denisova Cave fossils belong to the oldest Denisovan remains known so far. Equally, the modern human fossils we discovered in Papua New Guinea, are the oldest and most numerous human fossils that exist from New Guinea today. While their age determinations range from 14,000-1000 years ago, hence long after the disappearance of Denisovans in Asia, these modern humans represent the only genetically analysed humans from the supercontinent of Sahul.
In addition to our analytical work, our team has been instrumental in establishing four new laboratories, developing and streamlining new protocols, and facilitating data dissemination. Notably, we set up four new ZooMS labs in regions where such facilities previously did not exist. First, in Germany and Austria, where the project was based, establishing the first palaeoproteomic labs in each country, and later in China and Russia, covering most of the project’s focus. This not only ensured direct knowledge transfer and expanded research capabilities, but also trained a new generation of scientists to apply the method to their culture heritage materials.
Moreover, the FINDER Project has engaged over 30 volunteers, who have contributed to documenting and recording thousands of bone fragments, further supporting the project's mission and impact.
The project members have engaged with the academic community, through a series of publications and conference participations, and we have interacted with the public via open lectures, newspaper articles, museum events, and social media. Aspects of this work appeared in some of the largest public news outlets, from newspapers (The Guardian, the New York Times) to scientific journals (Nature, Science and more). This direct transfer of knowledge and engagement with academia and the public alike, showcase the great contribution of the ERC funding can have, not only to research questions tantalising scientists, but also to society more generally.
