SoYA 2027: Call for Papers
The Call for Papers for the 2027 edition of the Symposium of Young Archaeologists is here! The organisers of SoYA 2027 are also happy to announce that the official theme of this edition will be: Shifting the Narrative!
Every archaeological field is defined by its own longstanding narratives. These narratives can enrich and drive research, but also limit it along established lines. Early career researchers can bring new perspectives, connections, and ideas, and so challenge or help shape new narratives in archaeology. At the 2027 SoYA Symposium, we would like to draw attention to ways that young researchers are contributing research along new or underexplored lines of inquiry.
This year contributions are welcome that are shifting the narrative on…
- How archaeology is done: this includes new or underutilised methods, new or newly applied frameworks or interdisciplinary approaches.
- What is being told: research that is shifting the types of questions being asked, as well as research with a focus on effective science communication approaches.
- Who is doing research: research from marginalised researchers or minorities in the field, as well as community-based approaches.
- Why we do archaeology: how archaeology can address current issues such as climate change, and the impact of political instability and heritage destruction on archaeology.
All early-career archaeologists (students, PhDs, and postdocs) are welcome to submit their work. Full submission criteria and examples will be visible soon on www.soyasymposium.org, where you can also submit your abstract for consideration! The submission deadline is Monday, 30 November, 2026. A decision will follow in mid-December, to allow the speakers and poster presenters ample time to prepare before the symposium date.
The main language of the symposium is English, but there will also be a possibility for Dutch presentations. The venue and date are still to be announced, so be sure to follow us on Instagram @soya_symposium so you never miss an update!
For additional questions, please send an email to sojacommissie@gmail.com