Aim of the conference

Aim of the conference

Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) is widely used in archaeometry, conservation, and heritage research. The results of pXRF analyses contribute to our understanding of the past, for instance, geochemical signatures of stone help to reconstruct long and short distance artefact exchange systems or chemical compositions inform us about the technologies used to create metal or ceramic objects. Increasing developments and protocols mean pXRF data should be high quality enough to contribute to large shared research databases for testing old and developing new archaeological theories.

Despite its accessibility, the method is often applied without full consideration of instrument handling, data processing, or the specific requirements of different materials. This conference aims to highlight well-grounded case studies that demonstrate not just where pXRF was used, but why it worked. We invite papers that explore the successful application of (p)XRF across a broad spectrum of archaeological materials and research questions - including ceramics, metals, soils, pigments, lithics, and more. Case studies should go beyond simply presenting application results: they should critically reflect on methodological choices, challenges encountered, and lessons learned.

Conference Format

Conference Format

The free of charge in-person conference will be held on 30th of March 2026 at the Natural History Museum Vienna (Burgring 7, 1010 Wien).

Selection of Presentations: Submitted abstracts were evaluated through a blind peer-review process: reviewers assessed each contribution based solely on its title and abstract, without access to authors’ names or affiliations. The review was conducted by the Scientific Committee, comprising the GopXRF.net Core Team together with the conference Co-organiser, Mag. Dr. Michael Brandl. Each abstract was independently ranked by all reviewers. Based on the combined ranking scores, the six highest-ranked abstracts were selected for lightning presentations. All remaining accepted abstracts were invited to be presented as posters.

The format of the conference is designed to foster discussion and exchange: 

• First, each presenter will give a brief Lightning Presentation (10 minutes) introducing their case study, outlining key questions, materials, and methodological considerations.
• A World Café will follow, in which presenters host discussion tables shaped by the themes introduced in their talks. Across several rounds, participants will choose between tables to engage in focused, peer-driven conversations around shared challenges, solutions, materials, and research questions – creating space for practical exchange and interdisciplinary insight.
• Poster Pitches (3 minutes) followed by a Poster Session will provide more insight into current studies

Please find a preliminary outline of the conference program here.

Ice Breaker Event

Ice Breaker Event

An Ice Breaker event will be held on the evening of the 29th of March 2026.

• 4:00 pm: Guided tour of the Austrian Archaeological Institute’s (ÖAI) laboratory facilities
• 5:30 pm: Exclusive 1.5-hour guided visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with a focus on the catacombs and rooftop

Self-paid dinner reservations will be made for those registered. More information will follow soon!

Please find a preliminary outline of the conference program here.