Tracing Landscapes of the Past: Geospatial Approaches to Archaeology and Heritage Research
A Two-Week Hands-on Workshop: Geospatial Techniques for the Humanities
(28th December 2026- 8th January 2027)
The National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS), Bengaluru, is organizing a two-week workshop on GIS and Remote Sensing for the Humanities from 28th December 2026 to 8th of January 2027. This activity is being conducted as part of the capacity-building component of the SHRI-DST funded project Cultural Landscape Research Using Geospatial Tools and Techniques. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on sessions, the workshop will introduce foundational concepts and practical techniques for spatial data analysis. Participants will work with widely used tools such as Google Earth Pro and QGIS, learn how to georeference historical maps, interpret satellite imagery, and access open-source spatial datasets. Core modules will cover sensor technologies, coordinate systems, and methods for detecting change over time using historical imagery.
Additional sessions will focus on Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) for analyzing terrain, slope, and hydrology, as well as GPS-based workflows for site mapping and field data collection. Real-world examples will help participants apply geospatial techniques in environmental studies, architectural documentation, and archaeological research. Throughout the workshop, participants will engage in applied case studies and culminate their learning by presenting individual or group projects. The program also aims to foster collaboration across disciplines, encouraging the use of spatial analysis in both scientific and heritage-related research.
Key Takeaways
By the end of the workshop, participants will be able to independently process spatial data, perform basic to intermediate GIS analysis, and integrate GPS and remote sensing workflows. On completion they will leave with practical skills, applied project experience, and a foundational network for future collaboration in geospatial research.
Information for participants:
• Faculty, researchers and working professionals employed in agencies dealing with archaeology and heritage and/or remote sensing are invited to apply. A limited number of seats are available, and registrations will be accepted on shortlisting of applications.
• Those wishing to attend this workshop should apply by 30th September 2026 by filling up this application form:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=TA_9XB4dzEqOum3fBh7NWE4VOb78EBFOn_DcZ3JsOxdURVQ4MTRSNkRVNFBVVlpLMFRSVFQ5M1JMWi4u
• Selected participants will be notified with registration details and must confirm by paying the fee (₹7,500+GST @ 18% for professionals; ₹3,500+GST @ 18% for students) by 23rd October 2026. NIAS will provide free shared accommodation (on request, for outstation participants), meals (breakfast, lunch, tea/coffee), and transport for the field visit.
• Certificate will be given to participants who successfully complete the programme.
(For further information or clarification write to heritage.rsgislab@nias.res.in )
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