Analytical Methods for Cultural Heritage

Course manual 2025/2026

Objectives

• Gain knowledge of a broad set of analytical techniques relevant for the study of cultural heritage objects. At the end of the course, you should understand the theoretical working principles, methods for practical application (including their limitations), and the types of information that can be gathered for a range of imaging, spectroscopy and separation techniques on the macro and micro scale.
• Have the ability to effectively combine experimental results from different analytical techniques to compose a coherent answer to complex scientific questions.
• Develop the skills to formulate and justify a research approach to tackle new research questions. Important elements include a clear definition of research questions, the selection of experiments and their order, costs/benefits of techniques, feasibility, the relation between questions and chosen methods, and setting appropriate priorities for key issues and details.

Learning activities

Attendance

This programme does not have requirements concerning attendance (TER part B).

Additional requirements for this course:

Students are expected to attend all lectures and tutorials in person. Attendance at the first lecture is strictly mandatory.

Assessment

Fraud and plagiarism

The 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' applies to this course. This will be monitored carefully. Upon suspicion of fraud or plagiarism the Examinations Board of the programme will be informed. For the 'Regulations governing fraud and plagiarism for UvA students' see: www.student.uva.nl

Course structure

Contact information

Coordinator

• prof. dr. K. Keune