Archaeometry or archaeological science is the application of analytical techniques from diverse scientific disciplines to the study of archaeological materials and cultural landscapes to advance our understanding of past human activities, technologies, and environments. From the analysis of human and animal bones to the study of plant remains, material culture and landscape use, archaeometry facilitates the exploration of the past, illuminating patterns of trade and exchange, technological innovation and cultural transformation. In the Indo-Pacific region, the application of archaeometric techniques is rapidly expanding. However, the region’s tropical and subtropical climate poses significant challenges to the preservation of both organic and inorganic remains. Despite these constraints, researchers are developing and applying novel methods and approaches to material studies and ecological reconstructions. Our session provides a platform to showcase the wide range and progress of archaeometry in the Indo-Pacific. We welcome presentations from a broad array of specialties such as zooarchaeology, archaeobotany, archaeological microscopy, dating techniques, archaeological chemistry, geoarchaeology, landscape reconstruction, ancient DNA, palaeoproteomics, and residue and usewear analysis.

This session is sponsored by ARCAS.