A transformative milestone in heritage science has been reached: the European Research Infrastructure for Heritage Science (E-RIHS) is now officially a European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC). This recognition marks a new chapter for E-RIHS, reinforcing its role as a pivotal institution in Europe and beyond. Since its inclusion in the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructure (ESFRI) Roadmap in 2016, E-RIHS has continuously expanded its reach and impact. Now, with its newly acquired ERIC status, it is set to drive forward groundbreaking advancements in heritage science.
A Stronger Foundation for Research and Innovation
Italy has been designated as the host country for E-RIHS ERIC, backed by the Ministry of University and Research and the National Research Council. Its Central Hub is based in Florence, housed within the historic Manifattura Tabacchi, thanks to the support of Fondazione CR Firenze. From this strategic location, E-RIHS will coordinate operations across its 11 founding members: Cyprus, France, Hungary, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, and the United Kingdom. In addition, the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) is set to become a permanent observer, reinforcing the network’s global influence.
Advancing Heritage Science Through Interdisciplinary Collaboration
E-RIHS is dedicated to enhancing the understanding, conservation, and appreciation of cultural heritage by integrating expertise from the hard sciences and humanities. By bringing together research organizations, universities, restoration centers, and cultural institutions, E-RIHS fosters a unique and dynamic scientific community.
Through its hybrid research infrastructure, E-RIHS provides integrated access to cutting-edge platforms, including:
- Physical and digital collections housed in museums, galleries, conservation centers, and research institutions.
- Large-scale facilities for in-depth studies of micro samples and movable objects.
- Mobile instrumentation for non-invasive measurements in heritage sites.
- Advanced data and digital tools, aligned with the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC), ensuring FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data management principles.
Empowering the Next Generation of Heritage Scientists
A key element of E-RIHS is the HS Academy, a training initiative designed to equip students, researchers, and professionals with the knowledge and skills required to advance heritage science. Through specialized training programs, conferences, and events, the Academy builds capacity, fosters expertise, and encourages collaboration across disciplines.
E-RIHS ERIC’s establishment opens new doors for transnational cooperation, linking national and international initiatives in heritage research. By consolidating services, data, and expertise, E-RIHS enables seamless collaboration across borders, fostering scientific excellence and innovation.
Driving Technological Innovation in Heritage Conservation
The role of E-RIHS extends beyond research—it actively contributes to technological development, innovation, and policy advocacy in the cultural sector. By identifying knowledge gaps, testing new conservation materials, and assessing the effects of environmental change on tangible heritage, E-RIHS plays a critical role in shaping the future of heritage science.
Through its interdisciplinary approach, E-RIHS enhances our ability to understand heritage origins, material transformations, conservation treatment effects, and more. This knowledge is essential in ensuring the long-term preservation of cultural assets in an era of rapid global change.
With the official launch of E-RIHS ERIC, the European research community gains a stronger, more structured platform to explore, conserve, and protect cultural heritage. This milestone not only strengthens Europe’s leadership in heritage science but also paves the way for new opportunities, collaborations, and innovations on a global scale.