I'm passionate about human biology and history—two subjects often seen as separate, but actually deeply intertwined.
My journey began in medicine, but I transitioned from surgery to academia to teach clinical anatomy and research human origins and ancient diseases. I believe in sharing the incredible knowledge generated at universities, and since 2012, I've served as the Professor of Public Engagement with Science at the University of Birmingham. I've been honoured with eight honorary doctorates and have been president of prestigious organizations like the Association of Science Education and the British Science Association. In recognition of my work, I received the Royal Society’s David Attenborough Award for Public Engagement in 2020.
I've had the pleasure of presenting over a hundred TV documentaries on human biology, history, and archaeology. My television debut was as a human bone specialist on Channel 4’s Time Team in 2001. Since then, I've hosted BBC Two’s Coast, and written and presented landmark series such as The Incredible Human Journey, Origins of Us, and Ice Age Giants. I've also presented history and archaeology series like Britain’s Most Historic Towns, Fortress Britain, Ancient Egypt by Train, Curse of the Ancients, and Royal Autopsy. My longest-running series, BBC Two’s Digging for Britain, is now in its twelfth season.
In addition to television, I've authored fourteen popular science and history books. My book, The Incredible Unlikeliness of Being, was shortlisted for the Wellcome Book Prize in 2015. My latest trilogy—Ancestors, Buried, Crypt—explores the remarkable insights from burial archaeology and genetics. Crypt is a Number One Sunday Times Bestseller.
Beyond my academic and media endeavors, I'm an enthusiastic artist, blending science with art. I’m proud to be an associate of the Medical Artists’ Association of Great Britain and an honorary academician of the Royal West of England Academy.
Join me in exploring the fascinating connections between our past and present, through the lens of science, history, and art.