The 7th International Conference on Experimental Archaeology is organized by the TraceoLab, a research center in prehistory specializing in the functional study of use-wear traces and residues on stone tools, supported by systematic experimental programs.

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ocusing primarily on the Paleolithic of the Old World, the main research axes of TraceoLab include the emergence of hafting and the evolution of hafting systems, the development of projectiles and propulsion methods, as well as a strong commitment to advancing the methodological aspects of functional approaches.

Thanks to funding from the European Research Council (ERC), the University of Liège, and the National Fund for Scientific Research (F.R.S.-FNRS), state-of-the-art infrastructure has been developed at TraceoLab. This includes a microscopy laboratory, a laboratory for residue extraction and processing, and an experimentation laboratory. The center also houses an extensive experimental reference collection named TRAIL (Traces in Liège), which comprises tools made of various lithic raw materials with functional traces and residues, as well as traces and residues resulting from taphonomic or other processes. The studied raw materials include flint, quartz, dolerite, hornfels, quartzite, obsidian, and basalt.

TraceoLab is distinguished by its innovative approach, combining multiple research methodologies and integrating a full-time prehistoric technologist to facilitate the development of large-scale experimental programs. The center emphasizes the functional analysis of stone tools by examining use-wear traces and residues from production, use, handling, and hafting to understand the variability of lithic tools and their life cycle. This approach provides a better understanding of the diversity of archaeological assemblages.

The laboratory's expertise covers various periods, with a primary focus on the Paleolithic, although studies are also conducted on Mesolithic, Neolithic, and later tools. TraceoLab’s microscopy platform includes stereomicroscopes, metallurgical microscopes with reflected and transmitted light, a scanning electron microscope, an FTIR microscope, and a digital microscope.

The methodological studies include the formation of microscopic traces, residue deposition processes, fracture mechanics, and the identification of projectiles, with particular interest in technological evolution, such as the development of hafting systems or hunting technologies during the Paleolithic.

The University of Liège

The University of Liège is a renowned public university located in Liège, Belgium. Founded in 1817, it has a long-standing tradition of excellence in education and research. The university offers a wide range of programs in various fields, such as science, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and medical sciences.

Moreover, the University of Liège is recognized for its rich tradition in prehistoric research. For several decades, its researchers have made significant contributions to the study of ancient societies' cultures and technologies, particularly through the analysis of lithic tools, the exploration of major archaeological sites, and the study of prehistoric human behavior. The university houses specialized laboratories, including platforms for traceology and archaeometric analysis, which play a key role in advancing international scientific research in prehistory.

Known for its commitment to research and innovation, the University of Liège supports numerous research centers and institutes, significantly contributing to scientific advancements and societal development. The university also emphasizes international collaboration and maintains partnerships with institutions worldwide, thereby fostering a global academic environment.

With a diverse student body and dedicated academic staff, the University of Liège remains a leading institution for higher education and research in Europe.