[Workshop] Decoding Berlin: Data-Driven Insights into Museum Objects

Our hands-on workshop aims to unite experts from diverse disciplines, fostering innovative approaches to research. You bring your expertise, we provide the data from the museum collections. Join us to gain practical insights into interdisciplinary research on object-related and collection-based data, expand your research horizons and enhance your profile, network with diverse experts, and explore Berlin’s natural history and museum collections behind the scenes.

Focus Topic 

• Berlin’s Natural History: Explore the evolution of Berlin’s rich biodiversity and the changing geological, environmental context over time.
• Historical, Museological, Archaeological Insights: Investigate Berlin’s shifting image through historical and archaeological lenses, mapping changing specimen locations, tracking urbanisation process, and delving into the history of collections and collectors.

Who have we designed the Workshop for?

• Early-Stage Researchers: Scientists from natural and data sciences, digital humanities, humanities – including fields such as biology, zoology, palaeontology, archaeology, history, geological and environmental sciences  – who wish to enhance their research profile and broaden their research horizons.
• Collection Managers and Curators: Professionals involved in managing and curating collections who can learn about new approaches in collection-based research and effectively utilise datasets from museum collections.
• Data Stewards, RDM Professionals: Those who can learn from and benefit by exploring real-world examples of successful data management practices and innovative approaches in cultural institutions.

What to expect?

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour through the Museum’s stunning collections, followed by a collaborative brainstorming session. In small groups, you’ll use Berlin-related collection datasets to brainstorm and generate new ideas for collaborative projects and gather diverse input from fellow participants. This dynamic process will help you transform a range of ideas into innovative, multifaceted projects. Don’t miss this opportunity to spark creativity and boost your concepts with fresh perspectives!

Registration

To secure your place, please register by 17th November 2024. Registration is free, but space is limited to 20 participants.

PLEASE REGISTER HERE

Travel cost reimbursement for exceptional cases: We are committed to ensuring that all interested participants can attend our workshop. To support those in need, we are offering travel reimbursement for participants who may require financial assistance. If you would like to apply for reimbursement, please reach out to us with your reasoning or cause for needing support at: winoda@mfn.berlin. We believe in the importance of inclusivity and want to make this opportunity accessible to everyone.

Requirements

Participants should bring a laptop with either Mac, Linux, or Windows operating systems and they should also have MS Excel and Access, or equivalent open-source software (e.g., LibreOffice Calc and Base).

Language

The workshop will be held in English.

Photo: (c) Museum für Naturkunde Berlin / Carola Radke