AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The main objective of ARISTEAS is the enhancement of the infrastructure of  Laboratory of Archaeometry, through the upgrade of the existing equipment and software and the acquisition of new state-of-the-art devices. The three main directions of research will be (1) analysis of archaeomaterials, with an emphasis on inorganic materials, (2) remote sensing, and (3) digital applications on archaeology and Cultural Heritage. Of special interest is the advancement of in situ and non-destructive methodologies for the analysis and visualization of sites and artefacts.

During the implementation of the project, the Project Team will formulate, test and evaluate Best Research Practices, focusing on producing an overall synthesis of methodologies and research directions. The incorporation of basic archaeometric techniques with state-of the-art equipment is of special interest.

A further objective of ARISTEAS is the thorough exploitation of the LA@UOP infrastructure, based on the implementation of research on archaeological and cultural heritage artefacts and sites by the Project Team (post-graduate students, PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers). These projects will exploit the remarkably rich Cultural Heritage of the area of the Peloponnese.

Additionally, 24 short-term research grants will be given to international young researchers. Applicants will be evaluated based on the excellence of their research proposal. Grant beneficiaries will have open access to all LA@UOP infrastructure for the implementation of their research and will additionally be provided with a small stipend for the coverage of personal expenses. The international researchers will conduct state-of-the-art archaeometric research on significant case studies, allowing the extensive evaluation of the Research Methodologies and Best Practices and increasing the diffusion of ARISTEAS outcomes in the international research community.

The objectives of the project will be achieved by:

• Upgrading the existing infrastructure.
• Acquiring new state-of-the-art equipment.
• Training the members of the Project Team in advanced techniques and methodologies.
• Implementing archaeometric research by the Project Team.
• Funding international young researchers to implement short-time research projects with special significance.
• Hosting international conferences, workshops and webinars for the diffusion of the project outcomes.

ARISTEAS will reinforce the position of LA@UOP as one of the leading centres of archaeometric research in Greece. LA@UOP will be able to provide advanced and comprehensive services in archaeometric research, applying holistic methodologies based on well-designed and thoroughly evaluated research practices.