Pollen studies in archaeometry

Pollen studies in Archaeometry Fabrizio Michelangeli, Louise Chassouant, Ana Fundurulic, Roshan Paladugu, Alessandra Celant, Federico Di Rita, Donatella Magri Dip. Biologia Ambientale, Sapienza Università di Roma The study of fossil pollen from natural and archaeological contexts allows us to detect past vegetational variations related to human activity and/or climate change, to reconstruct palaeoenvironmental conditions, to detect preferential species exploited in ancient human communities, to trace back use and trade of wild and domesticated plants, and to help us decipher medicinal and ritual uses of natural products. In this context, the Laboratory of Palaeobotany and Palynology at Sapienza University of Rome carries out pioneer research in international projects and interdisciplinary collaborations(e.g., H2020 MSCA-ITN). Laboratory work mostly makes use of microscopic equipment (high magnification light microscopes, scanning electron microscope, Hirox 3D digital microscope) and instruments for chemical analysis (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry).