Our Mission
Who we are and what we do
IRLAB is a non-profit organization established to promote the advancement and diffusion of archaeological and bioarchaeological knowledge through research and education.
In practical terms, our goal is that of exploring and reconstructing the human past by excavating ancient settlements and studying what our predecessors left behind, from material culture to skeletal remains. At the same time we plan to investigate the environment in which these anthropic evidences are contextualized by means of surface archaeological surveys, as well as topographic and systematic field surveys. We believe that, to understand the human condition across time and space, it is necessary to study past populations directly within their archaeological context. Indeed, only by combining archaeological survey, excavation, and laboratory analyses can we gain a holistic appreciation for the multidimensional eco-bio-cultural world experienced by humans in the past.
One of our main objectives is to provide university students and professional researchers with multiple opportunities to receive a broad-spectrum training. To this end, we have an ongoing commitment to creating multidisciplinary, practical field schools, theoretical courses, and both introductory and advanced classes on a variety of topics within the discipline.
At the same time we continuously strive to produce concrete results, to be made known to the public through scientific and academic publications, as well as media disclosure through new means of communication. Hence, developing enduring partnerships with academic institutions and universities, as well as with governmental agencies and public associations, is one of the core principles of our Institute.
In sum, our educational, excavation, and research projects aim at increasing our knowledge of past populations across time and space, while sensitizing future generations to the importance of understanding our past and ultimately what it means to be human.
Disciplines
Programs & Fields of Study
Archaeology
The main purpose of IRLAB is to provide students with the basis for a modern stratigraphic archeology.
Bioarchaeology
Bioarchaeology merges the excavation of human remains with the principles of anatomy.
Paleopathology
Paleopathology is the study of disease in antiquity. This study focuses not only on pathogenic conditions, but also on nutritional disorders, variation in stature or the morphology of bones over time.
History
Each context provides important inputs for studies. The analysis of human history enables to deepen the scientific approach.
Computing and GIS
Archaeological and bioarchaeological sciences have embarked on a path of development that is now indelibly linked to, and dependent upon, applied modern technologies.
Material Culture
Material culture is the physical evidence of a culture in the objects and architecture they make, or have made.
Organization
As an association of professionals dedicated to the advancement of archaeology and bioarchaeology, IRLAB relies on its members to further its research and educational mission. Membership in the Institute is limited to professionals and students committed to the development and promotion of the Institute’s activities.
IRLAB’s Executive Board, composed of elected officers among the members, is responsible for overseeing the Institute’s operations and ensuring that all educational and research activities conducted by the Institute are consistent with its mission and core values.
IRLAB’s current Executive Board is comprised of three officers, specializing in different areas of archaeology and bioarchaeology:
David Hubin
President

Christina Loper
Vice-President

Francesco Coschino
Secretary

Giuseppe Vercellotti
Treasurer

FACTS
IRLAB by Numbers

2014
Founded

400+
Students

32
Staff members

50+
Universities involved