The Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology, University of Warsaw, hosted a workshop and individual consultations from June 23-29, 2024, as part of the Excellence Initiative–Research University “Mentoring Programme”. Dr. Maria Roumpou (The Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH), Crete/Greece) was invited as an expert and the event was coordinated by Dr. Urszula Wicenciak-Núñez (PCMA UW).
The purpose of the visit was to further research on organic residue analysis (ORA) at the University of Warsaw by gaining a better understanding of the role of ceramic and stone vessels in various archaeological settings. Additionally, the visit aimed to enhance expertise in analytical techniques and methods utilized in the examination of organic remains.
On June 25, Dr. Maria Roumpou gave an open lecture: “Organic Residue Analysis in Archaeology and the Awakening of the Senses.” The lecture drew a large audience, including students, academics, and those interested in organic residue analysis. The following day featured a workshop: “Modern Techniques for Organic Residue Analysis,” where participants learned about research concepts, methods, sampling and storage techniques, analytical methods, and challenges and limitations in organic residue analysis. The workshop concluded with a discussion about upcoming research and potential research projects.
On June 27, individual consultations were held as a crucial part of the visit. This allowed for personalized research support for members of the PCMA, Faculty of Archaeology and Faculty of History UW project team. Team members had the opportunity to talk about their research projects and receive detailed advice. This will help improve research methodology and enhance the accuracy of research results within their projects. Furthermore, the consultations helped with collaboration, grant planning, identification of potential research projects, and application strategies for securing research funds.
The visit enriched the research competence of the members of the project team team, which will contribute to more scientifically relevant results. Potential research projects and grants were discussed, including one concerned with the study of perfume containers from excavations in Paphos (Cyprus). The working title is “From Clay to Fragrance: Archaeological and Chemical Studies of Perfume Containers from Paphos.”
The project team included Ewa Czyżewska-Zalewska, Dr. Mateusz Iskra, Dr. Paulina Komar, Dr. Łukasz Rutkowski, Dr. Anna Smogorzewska, and Dr. Urszula Wicenciak-Núñez.
Gallery:
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Warsztaty z dr Roumpou (fot. Barbara Szymańska, PCMA UW) -
Warsztaty z dr Roumpou (fot. Barbara Szymańska, PCMA UW)
