MSc in Archaeological Science

Laboratory and instrumental skills (9 ECTS)

1st Semester

This module aims at providing students with the basic knowledge and skills that will enable them to use the analytical equipment used in projects of archaeological science. It presents the basic principles of the major analytical techniques used in archaeological research, and discusses their potential, limitations and protocols of good practice. The module includes lectures in the class as well as practicals in laboratories.

The methods, techniques and equipment are divided in the following broad categories: spectrometry-spectroscopy, optical microscopy, isotope analysis, chemical analysis, and satistical methods for managing analytical results. All methods refer to the analysis of both artefacts (e.g. made of clay, metals, stone and viterous materials) and ecofacts (e.g. botanical and zological remains, and soil).