On June 10, fellows visited the Institute of Archaeology to gain first-hand insight into the scientific methods and technologies that underpin contemporary archaeological research.
The visit provided fellows with an opportunity to explore a range of specialized laboratories and research facilities, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of modern archaeology and the diverse approaches used to study and preserve heritage.
During the tour, participants visited the dendrochronology laboratory, where researchers demonstrated how tree-ring analysis is used to date wooden artifacts and reconstruct historical and environmental events. In the spectral analysis laboratory, fellows learned about advanced techniques used to determine the chemical composition of archaeological materials and artifacts.
The tour also included visits to the metallography and petrography laboratories. There, participants were introduced to methods for examining the structure of ancient metals and analyzing rocks and minerals associated with archaeological contexts. Another key element of the visit was an overview of the archaeomagnetic method, which enables researchers to date archaeological features by studying changes in the Earth’s magnetic field recorded in archaeological materials.
In addition, the fellows explored the palynology and archaeozoology laboratories. Experts explained how pollen analysis helps reconstruct past landscapes and environmental conditions, while the study of animal remains provides valuable information about ancient economies, dietary practices and everyday life.
The visit offered participants a comprehensive overview of the scientific techniques that support archaeological research today and demonstrated how collaboration across multiple disciplines contributes to a deeper understanding of the past.
By engaging directly with leading researchers and laboratory specialists, the InteRussia fellows gained valuable insights into the practical application of scientific methods in archaeology, further enriching their academic and professional experience within the programme.
The InteRussia Fellowship in Archaeology is implemented by Mezhdunarodniki Autonomous Non-Profit Organisation in cooperation with the Gorchakov Fund and the Institute of Oriental Studies with support from the Tavolga Foundation and the Presidential Grants Foundation.
The visit provided fellows with an opportunity to explore a range of specialized laboratories and research facilities, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of modern archaeology and the diverse approaches used to study and preserve heritage.
During the tour, participants visited the dendrochronology laboratory, where researchers demonstrated how tree-ring analysis is used to date wooden artifacts and reconstruct historical and environmental events. In the spectral analysis laboratory, fellows learned about advanced techniques used to determine the chemical composition of archaeological materials and artifacts.
The tour also included visits to the metallography and petrography laboratories. There, participants were introduced to methods for examining the structure of ancient metals and analyzing rocks and minerals associated with archaeological contexts. Another key element of the visit was an overview of the archaeomagnetic method, which enables researchers to date archaeological features by studying changes in the Earth’s magnetic field recorded in archaeological materials.
In addition, the fellows explored the palynology and archaeozoology laboratories. Experts explained how pollen analysis helps reconstruct past landscapes and environmental conditions, while the study of animal remains provides valuable information about ancient economies, dietary practices and everyday life.
The visit offered participants a comprehensive overview of the scientific techniques that support archaeological research today and demonstrated how collaboration across multiple disciplines contributes to a deeper understanding of the past.
By engaging directly with leading researchers and laboratory specialists, the InteRussia fellows gained valuable insights into the practical application of scientific methods in archaeology, further enriching their academic and professional experience within the programme.
The InteRussia Fellowship in Archaeology is implemented by Mezhdunarodniki Autonomous Non-Profit Organisation in cooperation with the Gorchakov Fund and the Institute of Oriental Studies with support from the Tavolga Foundation and the Presidential Grants Foundation.
