Laboratories
As a Research Center focused on Science and Technology, STARC is constantly developing its laboratories. The main laboratory devoted to archaeological materials science research hosts the Scanning Electron Microscope with Energy-Dispersive Spectrometer (SEM-EDS), installed in 2019 and the only such instrument in Cyprus dedicated to archaeological and cultural heritage work. It is complemented by an Optical Microscopy laboratory, combining a series of stereomicroscopes and a research-level metallographic and petrographic microscope. Both labs are supported by a Sample Preparation laboratory, equipped with equipment to prepare thin and polished sections.
Human Osteoarchaeology laboratory
The Human Osteoarchaeology laboratory houses equipment for the comprehensive macroscopic study of skeletal remains, including a) bone casts for the identification of different skeletal elements, age-at-death, and sex, b) a full range of osteometric equipment (osteometric boards and callipers), c) equipment for sampling for isotopes analysis (Foredom K.1070 High-Speed Rotary Micromotor Kit), as well as d) a structured light 3D scanner (Scan in a Box). The laboratory also houses an updated library of textbooks on juvenile and adult osteoarchaeology, comparative osteology, palaeopathology, mortuary archaeology and other aspects of skeletal analysis.
Archaeobotany Laboratory
The Archaeobotany Laboratory of the Science and Technology in Archaeology and Culture Research Center includes facilities for the processing of archaeobotanical samples (flotation machines, sieves) and for their detailed study. High-power stereomicroscopes are used for the identification of plant remains, while a state-of-the-art 3D digital microscope is also available for higher magnification when needed. In addition to microscopes in the lab, STARC has portable USB digital microscopes for use in the field. A well-informed modern seed and plant reference collection of Cypriot flora offers further support to our research; this collection continues to grow in close collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Forestry.
The facilities of the Chemistry Lab, another state-of-the-art infrastructure of the EEWRC Center of CyI, can be used for phytolith analysis (furnace, glassware, balances, ceramic crucibles, distilled/R.O. water, a centrifuge, the required chemicals, a fume hood, an oven and a furnace). STARC also houses a Scanning Electron Microscope, which facilitates the identification of plant remains.
