GARG (Geoarchaeology and Archaeometry Research Group)

The Geoarchaeology and Archaeometry Research Group (GARG) at Southern Cross University focuses on the interaction between past human populations and their environment. Our aim is to use and enhance methods and analytical techniques from Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Earth sciences, and Life Sciences to answer a broad range of questions in Geoarchaeology, such as stone tools sourcing, timing of human evolution, palaeoenvironmental reconstructions, palaeodiet, site formation processes and occupation history, as well as characterisation of archaeological finds. GARG is a purpose built Geochronology, Geochemistry and Archaeometry research and teaching analytical laboratory associated with Southern Cross GeoScience (SCGS), at Southern Cross University (Lismore, Australia). The facilities were built between 2011 and 2014, founded by the Australian Research Council and SCU as part of the development of Archaeological Sciences within the university. GARG is part of the international acclaimed research centres in geochemistry at Southern Cross University, which has received in the past five years the mention “well above world standard” within the Excellence in Research Australia. Our research/teaching staffs, technicians, and students are active in Geochronology, Geochemistry, Climate Dynamics, Geomorphology, Paleoenvironment, Classical Archaeology and Quaternary Science. We encourage interdisciplinary approaches, both within the department of Geoscience and through interdepartmental programs. GARG possesses new state-of-the art facilities, including a dedicated ESR dating laboratory (Electron Spin Resonance), SOLARIS (Southern Cross Laser Ablation Research Instruments, LA-ICP-MS), portable and bench-top XRF, XRD, SEM-EDX, several chemistry laboratories, a sample preparation room, and can provide access to Synchrotron and ANSTO facilities through competitive schemes.