The aim of this project is to evaluate how the major political events of the 16th and 17th centuries have physically impacted local Transylvanian populations. For that purpose, we have been studying human remains excavated from several medieval cemeteries from eastern Transylvania. During the summer of 2020, we will concentrate our efforts on analyzing the exceptionally well preserved skeletal remains excavated from the collapsed medieval „Lost Church” located in the community of Valeni/Patakfalva. The osteology workhop will train students to conduct osteological analyses and frame bioarchaeolgoical research questions. The program is an intensive, in-depth, hands on laboratory workshop, focusing on research skill acquisition. This summer’s workshop is designed to conduct an exhaustive osteological survey of the adult population from our active Lost Church Medieval Cemetery Excavation. Although a basic knowledge of human anatomy and morphology is useful, this laboratory workshop session is intended for both inexperienced and advanced students. The workshop comprises daily intensive lectures on human anatomy (including determination of sex, age, stature and ancestry), biomechanics and pathology, bone quizzes, group discussions, laboratory work, bone restoration and analysis, leading to individual and group research projects and presentations in a conference setting.

Read more...

Field school's sexual harassment policy as submitted

ArchaeoTek / BioArch Canada has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment and discrimination. Our aim is to foster a safe and open learning environment that encourages independent and collective intellectual growth. To achieve this, we are committed to establishing an inclusive working and living space for all students, staff, and visiting researchers. The purpose of this policy is to clearly outline the expectations of staff, students, and visiting researchers. The staff agrees: To not harass, bully, victimize, or discriminate against race, sex, sexuality, gender identity, gender expression, age, nationality, socioeconomic status, disability, mental health status, and veteran status. To encourage inclusivity, equality, and diversity. To create a learning and living environment free of bullying, and harassment, victimization, and discrimination. To take seriously complaints of bullying, harassment, victimization, and discrimination by students and fellow staff. To promote dignity and respect for all individuals. The student/participant agrees: To not harass, bully, victimize, or discriminate against race, sex, sexuality, gender identity, gender expression, age, nationality, socioeconomic status, disability, mental health status, and veteran status. To report incidences of bullying, harassment, victimization, and discrimination by students and/or staff to the project coordinator. Any staff, students, or visiting researchers who violate our code of conduct with regards to bullying, discrimination, or sexual harassment may be asked to leave to program at that time without reimbursement or salary. Definitions of terms for reference: Discrimination is defined as unequal treatment based on race, sex, sexuality, gender identity, gender expression, age, nationality, socioeconomic status, disability, mental health, or veteran status. Harassment refers to any myriad abusive, counterproductive, or unwanted comments, actions, or behaviors that create an uncomfortable or hostile environment. These can include verbal put-downs and exclusionary language. Sexual harassment refers to unwanted sexual comments, actions, or behaviors. This includes unwanted physical advances, sexual remarks, or sexual behavior.