Project Mapping Iron Age Fortresses from the Urartian Empire Program Margo Katherine Wilke Undergraduate Research Internship Program Term Fall 2024 Status Accepted Research Area Archaeology, GIS Description Whenever feasible, archaeologists use the latest high-resolution satellite images, like those used in Google Earth, to locate ancient sites and study their environmental context. We can then catalog the location of sites in a Geographic Information System (GIS) to conduct spatial analysis on how different sites are related to each other and available resources, and pose anthropological questions about decisions people made and how they lived their lives the ancient past. This project will involve cataloging site location information on ancient Iron Age sites of the Urartian Empire from published articles. Through this internship, the student will assist with this process, learn the basics of how archaeologists use remote sensing data, and gain valuable experience working with GIS software, including ArcGIS Pro. GIS and spatial data skillsets are highly sought after in the public and private sector in both social science and STEM fields. This be an excellent first step for a student interested in spatial analysis and remote sensing technologies, or in advanced archaeological methods. Supervisor Ian C Lindsay Mentor Type of work required The work will involve examining site reports provided by the faculty mentor, and confirming the coordinates of reported sites using satellite imagery. The student will contribute to compiling a master list of site location information that will be used to conduct regional locational analysis of Iron Age fortresses in the region. Student will meet weekly for progress conversation with the faculty mentor. Websites Qualifications GIS experience is helpful, but not required. Good communication skills and attention to detail are important. Credit Hours 0 Weekly Hours 6 (estimated)