The Scottish Archaeological Forum is excited to announce that its biannual conference will take place from 25–26 October 2025 at Nicolson Square Venues, Edinburgh. 

SAF logo

This year’s conference theme Building Bridges: Connecting Scotland’s Archaeological Community seeks to highlight the diverse and dynamic ways in which archaeology in Scotland is evolving, emphasising collaboration, inclusivity, and global engagement. We’re inviting contributors from across the Scottish archaeological community who are involved in all aspects of researching, curating, or presenting the archaeological record to submit an abstract on the following themes: 

1. Building Bridges Across Sectors: Inclusivity and Accessibility in Practice

Under this theme we seek to highlight innovative partnerships, showcase successful case studies, and examine the practical impacts of shared expertise and resources. This theme also emphasises the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in archaeology, focusing on strategies that ensure all of Scotland’s communities see their heritage represented and have opportunities to engage in its study and preservation. 

2. Conversations Across Time: Engaging New Audiences with Old Stories 

We invite papers that explore the transformative impact of new theoretical perspectives, methodologies, and interpretive frameworks on the ways we engage with sites, objects, and collections. We are particularly interested in case studies and theoretical discussions that challenge traditional narratives, offering fresh insights into key periods and themes within Scottish archaeology. 

3. Archaeology Without Borders: Scotland in a Global Context

Scotland’s archaeological heritage does not exist in isolation. This theme encourages exploration of Scotland’s archaeological heritage within international frameworks past and present. We welcome discussions on cross-border connections, migrations, shared heritage, and comparative studies that situate Scotland within a global archaeological narrative. 

4. Crossroads of Discovery: Reinterpreting Scottish Archaeology Through Technology and Interdisciplinary Approaches

This theme explores the dynamic intersections of cutting-edge technologies and interdisciplinary collaborations that are reshaping the practice of archaeology in Scotland. We invite contributions that highlight how new methodological shifts - such as advancements in remote sensing, GIS, 3D modelling, dating techniques, and the integration of AI - are generating fresh perspectives on Scotland’s past and informing its future. Equally, we seek papers that demonstrate the power of interdisciplinary partnerships, drawing on insights from environmental science, soil science, geology, history, anthropology, art, literature, and cultural studies to enrich archaeological narratives and methodologies. 

Read the full call for papers here.  

Key Dates

  • Abstract deadline: 31 July 2025 
  • Notification of acceptance: 31 August 2025 
  • Poster submission deadline: 25 September 2025 
  • Conference dates: 25–26 October 2025

You can find the submission form here.  

Glasgow at the Heart of SAF 2025

This year’s SAF is being co-organised by early-career and postgraduate archaeologists from the Universities of Glasgow, Edinburgh, and St Andrews. Building on the success of SAF 2023, the 2025 conference continues our commitment to creating an inclusive, forward-thinking space for Scottish archaeology. 

With in-person sessions in Edinburgh and full digital participation options, the hybrid format aims to ensure broad access for those across Scotland’s archaeological landscape, including students, independent researchers, and community heritage groups. 

For any queries, please contact the organising team

More information and updates

We can’t wait to read your proposals, and to welcome you to SAF 2025.

First published: 15 May 2025

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