Scientific Methods in Cultural Heritage Research (7/29/2012 - 8/3/2012)

Non-Destructive Imaging and Micro-Analysis in Cultural Heritage
The Gordon Research Conferences (GRC) provide an international forum for the presentation and discussion of frontier research in the biological, chemical, and physical sciences, and their related technologies. GRC is organizing over 460 Conferences and Seminars in 2011 and 2012.
Complexity at multiple temporal and spatial scales is the defining characteristic of cultural heritage. Nanoscience, imaging, sensing and sensors design, computational modelling, and materials design need to be brought together to understand and preserve humankind's tangible archaeological, historic and artistic patrimony.
This conference seeks to foster the dialogue between those pushing the boundaries on methods and instrumentation and researchers in cultural heritage. Research in this field not only increases our understanding of ancient technology, artist intent, deterioration processes, and preservation strategies, it also has clear impact in the humanities, basic science, and science education.
The meeting will focus on the investigation of materials relevant to cultural heritage at multiple scales with an emphasis on microanalysis and imaging techniques and on opportunities at large scale facilities. Recent and upcoming developments in techniques such as hyperspectral imaging, Terahertz spectroscopy, tomography, elemental and molecular analysis using photons, neutrons and ions at large scale facilities as well as new lab-size sources will be discussed.
The participation of young investigators will be encouraged through dedicated complementary poster sessions.
Applications for this meeting must be submitted by July 1, 2012. Please apply early, as some meetings become oversubscribed (full) before this deadline.

Chairs:
Heinz-Eberhard Mahnke & Marco Leona
Vice Chairs:
Francesca Casadio & Philippe Walter

Further information:  
A list of preliminary session topics and speakers is currently being developed by the Conference Chair and will be available by December 1, 2011 on the Event Website.