Postdoctoral Researcher
After completing his bachelor’s degree in Economic History and Archaeology and his DPhil in Archaeology, both from the University of Zimbabwe, Russell went on to hold a postdoctoral post in the School of Archaeology at the University of Oxford (British Academy Newton International Fellow, 2021-22).
Russell’s research interests are in landscape archaeology, ancient stone architectural studies, material culture analysis, GIS, 3D modelling and heritage management within African archaeology. In light of Southern Africa’s predominantly studied second millennium AD elite dry-stone walled architectural settlements, exemplified by UNESCO World Heritage sites like Mapungubwe, Great Zimbabwe and Khami, his work seeks to redefine the narrative and help catalyse a paradigm shift in our understanding of the region’s ancient urban landscape. Specifically, Russell’s focus centres on the archaeology of ‘peripheral’ small towns and settlements, primarily from the 15th century onwards, and their vital role within the broader cultural sequences of the region. In contrast to the predominant research emphasis on these ‘capitals’, his investigations into ‘smaller’ towns attempt to reconfigure the region’s settlement hierarchies through cutting-edge interdisciplinary research.
I am passionate about delving into the depths of history to uncover the richness of African heritage and archaeology.