On September 20, the MAIA (Managing Artificial Intelligence for Archaeology) COST Action began, bringing together a network of archaeologists, digital archaeologists, and computer scientists who will work to develop a shared understanding of AI applications in archaeology. Hèctor A. Orengo (ICREA Research Professor) participates as Spain’s representative in the Management Committee of the project.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has great potential to enhance the understanding of our shared archaeological heritage. Only a few years ago, Machine Learning algorithms and Neural Networks were concepts unfamiliar to archaeologists; now, AI has been applied to many archaeological fields. Its advent has brought incredible opportunities but also significant challenges.
A deeper understanding of which archaeological research questions can be addressed, the availability and creation of the data upon which this research relies, the ethical, epistemological, and hermeneutical challenges posed by AI, and the lack of sustainable access to the necessary resources for undertaking this work, now require more thorough discussion and exploration.
During the first Management Committee meeting in Brussels, the Core Management Group was elected. The group includes Action Chair Gabriele Gattiglia (University of Pisa) and Vice Chair Holly Wright (University of York). Francesca Anichini (University of Pisa) was appointed Science Communication Coordinator, with Chiara Giovannetti (University of Rome La Sapienza) as her deputy. Despina Catapoti (University of the Aegean) will serve as Grant Awarding Coordinator. The Working Group leaders are Alex Brandsen (Leiden University), Vera Moitinho de Almeida (University of Porto), Anna Foka (Uppsala University), and Holly Wright (University of York).
Researchers of all levels of seniority have the opportunity to participate in the COST Action activities or apply as Working Group members. Information and contact details can be found at https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA23141/#tabs+Name:Description
COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology) is a funding agency for research and innovation networks. Our Actions help connect research initiatives across Europe and enable scientists to grow their ideas by sharing them with their peers. This boosts their research, career and innovation.
