Setting the scene: an eye on archaeology in cradles of civilizations

During the last two decades, a huge increase in the use of accelerators-based techniques is witnessed in a wide range of scientific applications such as physics, chemistry, biology, geology, biomedicine, agriculture, environment, materials science, cultural heritage and archeology. Unveiling a strong interest in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage compared to laboratory-based source, they are commonly implemented to shed light on the best methodologies of manufacturing, conservation, and/or restoration of different forms of heritage materials and objects. Moreover, they exhibit societal impact on education and advancing science and technology, along with human capacity building. The only synchrotron light facility in the Middle East, SESAME aims at promoting advanced science within its current Members: Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Israel, Jordan, Pakistan, Palestine and Türkiye. With Brazil, Canada, China (People’s Republic of), the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), the European Union (EU), France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Portugal, Russian Federation, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America are observers. SESAME exhibits integrated efforts in backing equality, strengthening self-determination, and reassuring justice. The session highlights SESAME’s pivotal role in advancing the capabilities of its scientists leading to a transformative impact regardless of gender. Five women scientists from the Middle East region and beyond, will present their endeavors in the field of archaeology and cultural heritage exemplifying persistence and resilience in mastering challenges, and celebrating even the slightest rewarding triumphs and milestones.