ABOUT ME
I am Deepak Jha, a passionate scientist at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Dhanbad, driven by a deep curiosity to explore Earth’s climate and its influence on human evolution. My recent research interests also extend to understanding how humans have transformed landscapes, altered Earth system cycles, and influenced feedback processes—providing critical insights into Anthropocene studies in the Asian context.
With a PhD from the prestigious Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata, India, I have been pursuing the complexities of human–environment interactions during the Quaternary Period.
My work focuses on unraveling the intricate connections between climate instability and human history, particularly through multidisciplinary investigations at archaeological sites across the globe.

Through the lens of stable isotope geochemistry, organic geochemistry, and paleoclimatology, I decipher the climate stories told by carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen isotopes preserved in geological and archaeological archives. Fossilized charcoals provide further clues, shedding light on past fire activities and the interactions between ancient humans and their environment. My expertise extends to Sr and Nd isotopes, allowing me to trace the origins of sediments and stone tools with precision.
Currently, I am also engaged in research at the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology in Jena, Germany, where I continue to push the boundaries of archaeology and geoscience. I am also associated to the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry as a guest scientist, enriching my interdisciplinary approach to research.
Recently, I have accepted a visiting professor position at the School of Archaeology, University of the Philippines. In this role, I am excited to share my knowledge and passion with students through an interdisciplinary course titled "Application of Biomarkers and Stable Isotopes in Geology and Archaeology." My goal is to equip future generations of archaeologists with the tools and skills needed to unravel the mysteries of our shared past.
Join me on this journey of discovery as we dig deeper into the fascinating world of geology, archaeology, and human history, uncovering the secrets that lie buried beneath the Earth's surface. Do reach out for any suggestions, ideas and future collaboration on mutual scientific interests!
EDUCATION
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Quaternary Paleoclimate
I'm curious to understand the past climatic variability during the Quaternary Period.
2016 - 2021
IISER Kolkata
PhD in Biogeochemistry and Quaternary Paleoclimatology
Organic Geochemistry
I use biomarkers from leaf-wax and Compound Specific Isotope Analysis (CSIA) to understand past environment changes.
2013 - 2016
IISER Kolkata
MS in Geological Sciences
Stable Isotope Geochemistry
I also use the bulk isotope composition of N and C isotope to understand the biogeochemical cycling in soil and plants.
2010 - 2013
University of Delhi
BSc (Hons) in Geology
Geoarchaeology
I try to understand the site formation processes and reconstruct the paleoenvironmental condition of archaeological sites