I am an archaeologist who specializes in digital and multidisciplinary methodologies for exploring and preserving the past. My research applies quantitative methods to investigating sociopolitical change in proto-urban and early urban societies of the Ancient Near East and Afghanistan, alongside developing digital, practical, and locally-sustainable solutions for endangered heritage sites and museum collections.
In addition to managing the EAMENA database, I currently co-direct the Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago’s Archaeological Expedition to Tell Surezha, Erbil, where we are exploring the Chalcolithic roots of social complexity in Northern Mesopotamia. After serving as the Field Director of the University of Chicago partnership with the National Museum of Afghanistan in Kabul, I participated in the Afghan Heritage Mapping Project as ArcGIS & Database Development Consultant, and I continue to design archaeological databases for field projects in Afghanistan, Georgia, and Iraq.
Other research interests include the identification and role of brewing and alcohol consumption in ancient societies, and the global importance of local and community-based heritage initiatives.
Mike is involved with the following projects:
Endangered Archaeology in the Middle East and North Africa (EAMENA)
Link to departmental profile:
Dr Mike Fisher
