The Institute explores the ancient cultures of the Land of Israel and its environs, both from a theoretical vantage point as well as through archaeological excavations. The Institute’s members serve as faculty in the Department of Land of Israel Studies and Archaeology and include their students in their research projects, field work and archaeological excavations. As part of the MA studies, archaeology students may apply for and fulfill the requirements for an “Excavator’s Certification” – which is required for those who wish to be able to receive excavation permits from the Israel Antiquities Authority.
The Archaeobotany Laboratory deals with the main issues of archaeobotany: analysing plant remains from various archaeological sites in Israel, reconstructing past human diet, modes of existence, environment, landscape, economy.