Call for applications: SAS Student Research International Travel Award

The Society for Archaeological Sciences is accepting applications for the SAS Student Research International Travel Award. 

Up to $1000 is available to help with costs of international travel for laboratory or field research to students who have been SAS members for more than one consecutive year. Applications will be accepted from undergraduates in their final year of study who are planning to attend graduate school as well as Masters degree and PhD students. Research must be undertaken in a different country than that of their home institution. Funds may not be used to attend at conferences, field schools, classes and/or training courses. The application deadline is February 1st, 2016.  

You can find more information and an application here.

For a list of past Travel Award recipients, please see the Travel Award page on the SAS website. 

Call for student award applications in Geoarchaeology from Society for American Archaeology (2015)

Call for applications for two student awards in Geoarchaeology:

The Geoarchaeology Interest Group of the Society for American Archaeology would like to invite qualified students to apply for the Douglas C, Kellogg Award, and the MA/MS Research Award (Paul Goldberg Award).

The Douglas C. Kellogg Award ($500) is granted to students who are actively working on their doctoral dissertations. The award will provide support for aspects of dissertation research, with an emphasis on field or laboratory analyses that are necessary for completion of the project. To qualify for the award, students should be registered at the Doctoral level with majors in the fields of anthropology, archaeology or earth sciences/geology. Their proposed project should include applications of geoscientific methods to archaeological questions, and they should make clear in their applications that they are preparing for an eventual career in geoarchaeology. The memorial award is provided by the Douglas C. Kellogg Fund for Geoarchaeological Research.

Deadline for application: 4 December, 2015; before midnight, Pacific time

Application materials: (1) a research proposal, maximum 3 pages (excluding references) that clearly describes the research project and its potential contributions to the archaeologyof North or South America; (2) a CV, and (3) two letters of support, one of which must be from the chair of the dissertation committee that certifies the student's Doctoral candidacy and expected graduation date. 

Please submit materials electronically (pdf format preferred) to: Dr. Susan Mentzer, susan.mentzer@ifu.uni-tuebingen.de

File names should include the first and last name of the applicant, and the award name should be indicated in the title of the proposal. 

The MA/MS Award ($500) is granted to students who are actively working on their MA or MS projects. The award will provide support for research, with an emphasis on field or laboratory analyses that are necessary for completion of the MA/MS thesis or report. To qualify for the award, students should be registered at the MA or MS level with majors in the fields of anthropology, archaeology or earth sciences/geology. Their proposed project should include applications of geoscientific methods to archaeological questions.

Deadline for application: 4 December, 2015; before midnight, Pacific time

Application materials: (1) a research proposal, maximum 3 pages (excluding references) that clearly describes the research project and its potential contributions to the archaeologyof North or South America; (2) a CV, and (3) two letters of support, one of which must be from the chair of the thesis committee that certifies the student's role in the project and expected graduation date. 

IRUG 12th Biennial Conference-Call for Abstracts

Call for Abstracts

Infrared and Raman Users Group 12th Biennial Conference (IRUG12)

Date: May 23-25, 2016

Venue: Ormylia Foundation - Art Diagnosis Centre, Ormylia, Chalkidiki, Greece

The 12th Infrared and Raman Users Group biennial conference (IRUG12) will take place May 23-25, 2016 at the Ormylia Foundation - Art Diagnosis Centre, Ormylia, Chalkidiki, Greece. Oral and poster presentations, addressing all aspects of the application of IR and Raman spectroscopies for the study, documentation and protection of the world’s cultural heritage are invited. ‘Advancements in IR and Raman Spectroscopies Applied in Archaeological Science’ is a special topic that will be addressed within the conference sessions. However, all topics are welcome.

Ormylia is situated in the beautiful hills of northern Greece near Mount Athos, a spiritual and artistic center dating to the 10th C. that is an UNESCO World Heritage site (http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/454). Important archaeological sites like Stageira, Aristotle’s birthplace, and Olynthus, best known for its well-preserved mosaic floors are nearby. Ormylia is located 80 km from the Thessaloniki International Airport ‘Makedonia‘, where direct flights arrive from Athens International Airport, Kalamata Airport and many EU countries.

Important dates:

Abstract submission (500 words) due: December 30, 2015 (Official conference language is English.)

Notification of acceptance: January 15, 2016

Final program: February 15, 2016

Registration due: April 30, 2016

Conference: May 23-25, 2016

Submission, registration and other information:

Conference fees: Normal 250 EUR, Student 150 EUR (includes conference kit, book of abstracts, welcome reception, all coffee breaks/lunches and conference dinner)

Conference website: http://www.irug12-ormylia.gr

Conference chair: Dr. Sophia Sotiropoulou (committee@irug12-ormylia.gr)

Conference secretariat: Katerina Karagianni (secretariat@irug12-ormylia.gr)

Ormylia Foundation: http://www.ormyliafoundation.gr/

IRUG website: http://www.irug.org

About IRUG:

IRUG is a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to the support and professional development of its participants by providing a forum for the exchange of IR and Raman spectroscopic information and reference spectra for the study of the world’s cultural heritage. We look forward to seeing you at the IRUG conference in Ormylia in May!

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR A POSITION  OF RESEARCHER IN ARCHAEOLOGY, AFRICAN METALLURGY OPTION 

The Fundamental Institute of Black Africa Cheikh Anta Diop (IFAN Ch. A. Diop) is recruiting a (an) researcher(s) in African Archaeology, who holds a Doctorate of State or University Doctorate new regime or a single PhD or Doctorate 3rd cycle or PH.D. 

Profile and skills:
 • good knowledge of African Archaeology;
 • mastery of the Iron Age period;
 • ability to overcome disciplinary approaches by interacting with its historical analyses through interdisciplinary approaches;
 • field experience.

Application:
 • a written request to the Rector of the UCAD through the Director of IFAN Ch A. DIOP.
 • legalized photocopies of diplomas and/or certificates;
 • a detailed C.V.;
 • a birth certificate not older than 3 months;
 • a criminal record not older than three months;
 • a certificate of good conduct not older than 3 months;
 • a certificate of visit and second examination established by the doctor of UCAD.

Scientific Evidence:
 • copies of diplomas;
 • the defense report;
 • publications (articles and papers published in scientific journals and newsletters);
 • a copy of the thesis.

The complete files of candidacy must be filed on or before May 30, 2015 at 12 o'clock at IFAN Cheikh Anta Diop (West Corniche on the campus of the University Cheikh Anta Diop of Dakar).

UNIVERSITÉ CHEIKH ANTA DIOP DE DAKAR
INSTITUT FONDAMENTAL D'AFRIQUE NOIRE
CHEIKH ANTA DIOP
Boîte Postale: 206 DAKAR (Sénégal)
Standard : + 22 1 33825 98 90   Secrétariat Direction: + 221 33824 16 52
Fax : + 221 33 824 49 18   E-mail : ifan@ucad.edu.sn   Web : www.ucad.sn

Post-Doctoral Position

1-year Post doctoral research position, September 1^st 2015 – August 31^st 2016

 ISLAMETAL

A research Program on Iranian Metal ware

Department of Islamic Art - Louvre Museum / Centre de Recherche et de Restauration des Musées de France

Scientific context

The Louvre hosts one of the most remarkable collections of metal ware from the Islamic world. Among this holding are 150 objects originating from Iran, in addition to 79 objects from the greater Iranian world. They are comprised of small vessels for food and drink; personal items for bathing, cosmetics and perfumes; decorative objects; and utility items such as candlesticks and incense burners.

While Near East metal ware production has been thoroughly studied, metal ware from the Persian and Indian worlds during the Islamic Period have until now been less investigated. Thus, with its 229 items, the analytical data from the Louvre collections will represent a large input in the field. New avenues of research may be brought to light such as the possibility to identify specific centers of productions.

The Islamic Art Department’s collection dates from the 8^th through the 19^th centuries. The works of art that will be studied can be divided into the following groups:

- Medieval Persian World (11th-13th centuries): 93 objects

- Southwestern Iran (13th-14th centuries): 30 objects

- Western and Eastern Greater Iran (15th century): 19 objects

- Late Persian World (16th-19th centuries): 21 objects

- Iran or India (16th-19th centuries): 37 objects

The works of art in the Louvre’s holding are often unique pieces and reveal the range of Persian craftsmanship. Several types of techniques, such as repoussé, inlay, engraving and relief, were used with extraordinary skill, and delicately written inscriptions and calligraphy decorate the pieces providing valuable information on their origin. However, to date, the study of these objects has been based on archaeological, historical and epigraphic data, and has exclusively focused on dating, attribution, inscription and style.

The Department of Islamic Art’s project will focus on its collection of Persian metalwares from an archaeometallurgical perspective. The initiative will concentrate on the identification of the materials used to create these stunning objects – mainly copper alloys, often inlaid with silver, gold, and/or copper. This type of technical investigation has never been conducted on the collection and will be extremely valuable to the understanding of the elements and techniques used by artisans and workshops. A detailed examination of the metallurgical composition of certain pieces will also allow a more precise identification of their origin. For example, many of the objects in the collection are currently classified as Iranian or Indian, as metal ware from both territories present similar characteristics in form and in decoration. A metallurgical analysis will discern the origin of the metals and thus help determine where the objects were created. The archaeometallurgical program will also focus on the manufacture and the ornament techniques. This shall represent the most time-consuming part of the project

The two first corpus (11-14^th c) have been studied during 2014-2015, the 1-year postdoctorate position will focus on the three last corpus (15-19^th c).

Skills required

Applicants shall have a PhD degree in archaeometallurgy or related field. They shall be experienced in archaeometallurgical investigations, including elemental analysis of metals and manufacture techniques. Most time will be spent in the close examination of the artifacts in order to find out the fabrication and decoration techniques. Therefore, the candidate shall be particularly interested and skilled in these technical aspects. Particular interest in medieval and Early modern Indo persan will be appreciated.

Appointment

The position for this post-doctoral fellow will be funded for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of being renewed for a further period. The net annual level of remuneration is 28,000 €

Contacts

The research will be led in collaboration with the Centre de Recherche et de Restauration des Musées de France (C2RMF). It will be managed by Annabelle Collinet, Ph. D, research associate in the Louvre’s Department of Islamic Art Department, and David Bourgarit, Ph. D, archaeometallurgist at the C2RMF.

Applicants interested in this position should contact Annabelle Collinet (annabelle.collinet@louvre.fr) and David Bourgarit (david.bourgarit@culture.gouv.fr). Applicants should provide a statement of purpose regarding the  proposed research of one page in length, together with a full CV, and  the names and e-mail addresses of three academic referees. We aim to make an appointment to this position by June 30th 2015.

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS --- Metrology For Archaeology

SEE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION http://www.metroarcheo.com/

Metrology For Archaeology

Il crescente interesse verso le nuove tecnologie e le tecniche analitiche, al fine del raggiungimento di conoscenze più dettagliate, ha recentemente incrementato l’utilizzo di un approccio numerico nell’archeologia.

La Prima Conferenza "Metrology for Archaeology" si propone, per tale ragione, come  una rilevante occasione di confronto, a livello internazionale, tra ricerca archeologica e  scienze ‘dure’, al  fine di consolidare una proficua interazione tra specialisti di diversi saperi nel campo dei Beni Culturali. In particolare, la Conferenza coinvolgerà ricercatori e operatori interessati all’intervento sul patrimonio archeologico, con l'obiettivo principale di focalizzare la discussione sulla produzione, interpretazione, affidabilità  e rappresentazione dei dati misurati.

Il workshop è stato, pertanto, progettato per proporre un quadro esaustivo delle molteplici esperienze attuabili nel campo della "misura" attraverso l’approccio integrato delle articolate competenze della comunità scientifica.

  

Metrology For Archaeology 

The growing interest of archaeological sciences towards new technologies and analytical techniques, has recently improved the use of numerical approach to get more detailed archaeological purpose. The advantages of the multidisciplinary approach have permitted to reduce the level of uncertainty in archaeological studies. The 1St "Metrology for Archaeology" is a significant opportunity for discussion, at the international level, between archaeological research and  'hard' sciences, in order to consolidate a fruitful interaction between specialists from different disciplines in the field of Cultural Heritage.

In particular, the Conference will involve researchers and operators interested in the valorisation, characterisation and preservation of archaeological heritage with the main objective of focusing the discussion on the production, interpretation and reliability of the measured data.

The workshop, was therefore designed, to offer a comprehensive picture of the many experiences in the field of "measure" of the archaeological heritage through the integrated approach of articulated skills of the scientific community. The events will be disseminated within the scientific community, academic and a specific website has been created to publicize initiatives.

Conference Topics

-  Computer Science and Geomatics applied to archaeology

-  Archaeogeophysics

-  Geoarchaeology

-  Production and Food in the ancient Mediterranean

-  Archaeobotany

-  Archaeometry

pXRF Intermediate Short Course, University of Georgia, Aug. 11-13, 2015

Doing pXRF Right: An intermediate course for Archaeologists

Center for  Applied Isotope Studies, University of Georgia

August 11-13, 2015

Dr. Jeff Speakman & Dr. Alice Hunt

Focusing primarily on the quantitative bulk chemical analysis of archaeological  materials using portable x-ray spectrometry, this course provides in-depth, hands on  training in the strengths and limitations of energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence  spectrometry for culture historical applications. Through interactive lectures and  practicums, the course is designed to transform current users into adept analysts.  Although this course is not sponsored by a manufacturer, we will only be working with Bruker Tracer model instruments during this course.

Course Overview

Day 1 — pXRF Basics & Developing Analytical Protocols

Day 2 — Building Matrix Matched Calibrations & Data Analysis

Day 3 — Optimizing Instrument Performance & One-on-One Tutorials

Dr. Jeff Speakman & Dr. Alice Hunt between them have more than 30 years experience analyzing archaeological materials, working with bulk chemical data and have recently turned their attention to optimizing the performance of pXRF spectrometers for archaeological research.

Check out their latest paper:

Hunt & Speakman 2015 Journal of Archaeological Science 53: 1-13

Registration information can be found at:

http://cais.uga.edu/workshop

Space is limited to 10 participants, so register early. Cost for the three day course is $500 and includes all instruction materials, lunch and an afternoon snack.

YOU MUST BRING YOUR OWN pXRF WITH YOU TO THE COURSE

2015 RE Taylor Poster Award

Dear members of the Society for Archaeological Sciences:

The judges for this year’s R.E. Taylor best student poster competition at the SAA 2015 meeting decided to award Kara Fulton's poster 'Shared Practices and Identities in the Northern Settlement of Actuncan, Belize'.

Honorable Mention has been awarded to Kristine Martirosyan-Olshansky's poster 'Provenance Study of Obsidian Artifacts from the Neolithic Settlement of Masis Blur (Armenia) Using Portable X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry" 

May I be the first to congratulate them on this achievement!

This prestigious award is named in honor of Professor Emeritus R. Ervin Taylor of the University of California at Riverside for his outstanding contributions in the development and application of radiocarbon dating in archaeological research and dedication to the founding of the Society for Archaeological Sciences, for his leading role as President (1980) and General Secretary (1981-2002) and his committed service as editor of the SAS Bulletin. For more than a decade, receiving the Taylor R. E. award has enhanced the career of those who are now prominent young scholars and professionals.

The next R. E. Taylor Award will be offered at the 41^th ISA meeting in Kalamata.

Entries will be judged on the significance of the archaeological problem, appropriateness of the methods used, soundness of conclusions, quality of the poster display, and oral presentation of the poster by the student, who should be the first author in order to compete (http://ees.kuleuven.be/isa2012/student-awards/index.html).

Kind regards,

Marc Walton

President of the Society for Archaeological Sciences

R.E. TAYLOR STUDENT POSTER AWARD COMPETITION ANNOUNCEMENT SAA 2015

The Society for Archaeological Sciences invites applications for the R.E. Taylor Poster Award at the Society for American Archaeology's 80th Anniversary Meeting in San Francisco, California. 

This prestigious award acknowledges innovative student contributions to archaeological research through the use of scientific methods, and has enhanced the careers of prominent young scholars and professionals for more than a decade. The award is named in honor of Professor Emeritus R. Ervin Taylor of the University of California at Riverside for his outstanding contributions in the development and application of radiocarbon dating in archaeological research and his dedication to the founding of the Society for Archaeological Sciences; his leading role as President (1980) and General Secretary (1981-2002)of the Society; and his committed service as editor of the SAS Bulletin. Professor Taylor's many valuable contributions were recognized by the SAA in 2004 with the Fryxell Award for Interdisciplinary Research. The award consists of $100 US, a one-year SAS membership and subscription to the SAS Bulletin.

Entries will be judged on the significance of the archaeological problem, appropriateness of the methods used, soundness of conclusions, quality of the poster display, and oral presentation of the poster by the student, who should be the first author in order to be considered.

Students should submit an email application to Destiny Crider (cridde01@luther.edu) by April 1, 2015. Applications must include the title and abstract of the poster, evidence that you have registered for the SAA meetings (email from the SAA), and proof of your status as an undergraduate or graduate student (usually appears on your SAA registration). Email confirmation that your application has been received will be sent to you. Please keep this email confirmation. In order to give the judges adequate time to posters, students will also be required to submit a PDF version of their poster on or before April 10, 2015. Judges will be present in person at the SAA meetings to judge posters and to ask students questions about their research. Prizes will be awarded at the SAA meetings following the end of the last poster session.

Good luck to everyone!

To enter contact Destiny Crider (cridde01@luther.edu)

2015 Recipeint of Student Research International Travel Award Announced

The Society for Archaeological Science is honored to announce that Kuan-Wen Wang, University of Sheffield, was awarded the SAS Spring 2015 Research Travel Award for “Scientific Analysis of Early Iron Age Glass Beads from Taiwan.” 

This project involves chemical analysis, through SEM-EDS and EPMA, on 1st millennium AD glass beads from sites in north-eastern, southern and eastern Taiwan. The results will establish chemical groupings in the region to indicate potential social interaction, both regionally and chronologically, and help elucidate prehistoric trade/exchange networks in the South China Sea region in the transitionary period from the late Neolithic Age to the early Iron Age.

To learn more about the program and past awardees, please visit our webpage: http://socarchsci.org/awards1.html

Position Announcement:

Scientist: Metallurgy 

Reference: 1454607

Location: London

Closing Date: Tuesday 3rd March 2015 12pm Noon

Additional Information:  Salary: £27,089 per annum
Contract: Fixed Term Contract: 12 months in duration (Full Time)

---

The department of Conservation and Scientific Research, based in the new laboratories at the British Museum, is looking to recruit a Scientist: Metallurgy, to undertake scientific examination, analysis and X-radiography of archaeological and museum objects for material identification and technological investigation using a range of analytical techniques. The role will focus on the scientific examination and analysis of metals and studies into metal technology within the British Museum collection, including research into the raw materials, provenance and deterioration mechanisms of metallic artefacts. The job holder will use scientific techniques and metallurgical knowledge to answer questions from museum curators and conservators and provide scientific services within the aims of the Museum, disseminating results through reports, publication and lecturing to a variety of audiences.

Key areas of responsibility:

• To provide specialist scientific expertise (in response to conservation and curatorial enquiry) in the characterization of metals, including raw materials and technology, using a variety of techniques such as metallographic microscopy, SEM-EDX, X-radiography and XRF
• To be a member of multi-disciplinary project teams (curators, conservators and scientists) investigating the technology, deterioration, storage and conservation of museum objects, predominantly focusing on metal objects
• To be involved in the delivery of Museum-wide projects such as exhibitions, preparation of catalogues and excavation reports
• To assist in the interpretation of data obtained and to document and report the results obtained and disseminate results to a range of audiences as appropriate
• To initiate new projects within the Museum and department research strategies and participate in the development of research collaborations with external museum and HE partners

Person Specification:

The ideal candidate will have a Degree,Masters or equivalent qualification in chemistry, archaeological science, materials science, metallurgy or a related science-based subject. The ability to write to publication standard is essential. The ideal candidate will have experience in a research and/or analytical laboratory environment with practical experience in the use of XRF and some of the following: SEM-EDX, X-radiography, metallographic microscopy, XRD, Raman, ICP-AES or ICP-MS. The post requires good IT skills, an ability to work independently and to meet deadlines, good organisational skills with the ability to pay close attention to detail, good communication skills (verbal and written English), strong team working ability and an appropriate publication record or other evidence of written capabilities.

About the British Museum:

Founded in 1753, the British Museum’s remarkable collection spans over two million years of human history and culture. With over 6 million visitors in 2013, the Museum is the top visitor attraction in the UK, and its world-famous collection includes metal objects from all periods and cultures including the Sutton Hoo ship burial, the Hoxne Roman treasure and cast head of the King of Ife.

The Museum is an equal opportunity employer, supports a diverse workplace and offers a competitive benefits package including:

• Membership of the civil service pension scheme
• Free entry to a wide range of museums and exhibitions
• Participate in private and public Museum activities, including talks by leading curators from around the world and behind-the-scenes opportunities to learn how museums care for and manage their extraordinary collections
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Interest-free season ticket loan
• Child care voucher scheme
• Professional & personal development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounts on food and gift shop purchases

If you are interested in applying, please follow the “Apply now” link below where you will be directed to complete your application.

Closing date: 3rd March 2015, Midday

---

If you have any queries regarding this role, please email us at bm@penna.com or call 0845 601 1124. Please quote the job reference number in the subject line of any email and at the beginning of a call.

Job Description, Person Specification and further information

• Apply Now

 

If you have any questions with this form please contact us at bm@penna.com.

The publicly-accessible URL is: http://goo.gl/Scw3RL