Through paleoecological research we uncover the relationship and development of today's biodiversity. For example, we use diatoms for research into long-term changes in the climate or environment. And in archeology these algae are used to provide insights into past landscapes.

The presence of diatoms in centuries old building materials (peat and bricks), pottery, human and animal remains (bones and dung) can provide additional information about the past use and ecological condition of an area. This provides information useful in ecosystem restoration.

Insects and other invertebrates (macrofauna) respond quickly to changes in their environment. They are therefore very useful when reconstructing various ecological variables. For example, fossilised heads of Chironomidae (midges) are commonly found in ancient sediments and archaeological soil samples, indicating that water was present at the time.

With our knowledge of diatoms and invertebrates and their interactions with the environment, we carry out analyses on archaeological material and provide input into the interpretation of these data, and other analylitical results.