Professional opportunities
Functions
RCHMAT graduates conduct research, analysis, and interpretation of data relating to the constituent matter of archaeological heritage, its degradation processes, its interaction with the environment (both discovery and conservation), production techniques, and the state of conservation of such heritage.
The key tasks of ARCHMAT graduates are:
- analyzing and documenting the constituent matter and degradation of archaeological heritage;
- managing laboratories and overseeing initiatives for the dissemination of archaeometry-related technologies;
- conducting study, research, training, and education in the field of archaeometry and related disciplines.
ARCHMAT graduates may hold positions with varying degrees of responsibility, based on their acquisition of additional skills through doctorates, professional master's degrees, and professional experience in the fields of expertise characterizing their profile.
The Expert in Diagnostics and Science and Technology Applied to Cultural Heritage (internationally known as a Heritage Scientist) conducts research, analysis, and interpretation of data relating to the constituent materials of cultural heritage, its degradation processes, the interaction of the environment (both discovery and conservation) with the cultural heritage, construction techniques, and its state of conservation. They collaborate with other professionals involved in conservation work to identify the most suitable materials for restoration and maintenance. They monitor the effectiveness of restoration work and its state of conservation over time.
Skills
The ARCHMAT graduate possesses the multidisciplinary skills necessary to:
- use and apply even complex analytical techniques and instruments for chemical, physical, mineralogical, biological, and computer-based diagnostics to the study of archaeological materials;
- design and implement diagnostic, monitoring, and conservation activities for archaeological heritage and sites;
- use IT systems for managing, processing analytical data, and documenting archaeological finds;
- engage in scientific dissemination activities on issues related to archaeometry, including in international contexts.
- continue studies at the third level (PhD).
Career Opportunities
ARCHMAT graduates may find employment in:
- Institutions of the Ministry of Culture (Ministry of Culture) responsible for the protection of cultural heritage (archaeological superintendencies, museums, archives, etc.) and equivalent European and non-European institutions;
- Universities and public and private research institutions promoting archaeological reconnaissance and excavation projects in Italy and abroad;
- Public and private restoration laboratories in European and non-European countries;
- Italian and international non-governmental institutions for the protection of archaeological heritage (e.g., UNESCO);
- Companies and professional organizations operating in the field of diagnostics, conservation, and restoration of cultural heritage;
- companies promoting archaeological sites and parks in Italy and abroad;
- freelance work in archaeological reconnaissance and excavation projects, and archaeometric consultancy;
- continuing studies at the third level (PhD).
Museum Curator
Functions
RCHMAT graduates will be eligible to pursue the career of museum curator, responsible for the conservation, security, and management of museum collections, after having acquired (through curricular or extracurricular means) at least 30 credits (ECTS) in scientific-disciplinary fields relevant to the museum's specific mission, as well as a specialized diploma, doctorate, or second-level master's degree or equivalent qualification obtained abroad in a discipline relevant to the museum's specific mission.
Responsibilities: The museum curator is responsible for the conservation, security, and management of collections. In the absence of the director, they are also the custodian of the collections and are accountable to the owner and/or custodian and the conservation authorities.
Skills
• Direct and coordinate, in consultation with conservation authorities, research on the state of conservation and maintenance, prevention, and restoration activities of museum collections and cultural heritage in the surrounding area;
• Plan and coordinate inventory and cataloging activities of collections, especially for conservation purposes, according to national and regional standards, and ensure their public access;
• Oversee the analysis of potential risks to collections and facilities;
• Coordinate the adoption of prevention measures;
• Develop and implement the maintenance, prevention, and restoration plan for museum collections and facilities;
• Oversee exhibition setups and the organization and management of warehouses;
• Develop safety and prevention measures to be adopted during temporary exhibitions and ensure compliance;
• Contribute to decisions regarding loan agreements and related terms and conditions (including insurance, transportation, contracts, etc.) and ensure compliance;
• Manage, in consultation with the Director, relationships with public and private entities interested and/or involved in conservation activities.
Career Opportunities
Employment in:
Universities, Superintendencies, Museums, Research Centers; Local, national, and international, public and private institutions; companies working in the recovery, restoration, and study of ancient artifacts (e.g., corporations, cooperatives, and private companies).