HEAS Workshop at the NHM Wien

Museum-driven research and preservation strategies of heritage objects with nuclear analytical techniques

The purpose of this event is to bring together scientists of various disciplines, and career stages, who engage with the research and preservation of heritage objects to provoke an artefact-based discussion on analytical methods. Nuclear analytical techniques in their broadest sense embrace XRF techniques, ion beam analysis, radiocarbon dating, MicroCT imaging, synchrotron-based techniques, neutron imaging, neutron radiography and Neutron Activation Analysis – as well as complementary techniques.
There will be presentations of case studies on archaeological material which will illustrate the research approaches, work-flows and results. We aim to have productive discussions on the refinement of methods for more minimal-invasive and non-invasive ones that serve for the protection of cultural heritage objects.

Target Audience
The event is intended for museum professionals, conservators, archaeologists, heritage scientists, and researchers from the physical and material sciences involved in the analysis and preservation of cultural heritage. The workshop is addressed both to young and experienced specialists working in relevant fields. A special emphasis will be given to support young researchers to present their research topics, doctoral thesis etc. that include application of nuclear technology on archaeological artifacts in a poster session.

Expected Outputs
• Review existing research workflows and integrate complementary analytical techniques through the discussion of case studies and methodological advances;
• Propose and assess best practices in the analytical investigations of heritage objects (with focus on archaeological artefacts);
• Advancement and refinement of minimally invasive and non-invasive analytical approaches for cultural heritage studies;
• Development of recommendations for the responsible application of nuclear analytical techniques in museum contexts;
• Promotion of new interdisciplinary collaborations and the initiation of future research activities;
• Strengthening the role of museums as active partners in heritage science.

Registration will open in Mid-September, but you can register your interest in attending here:

Register your interest in attending here