Born in Bangor, Maine
Biography:
Sarah Helen Parcak is an American archaeologist and Egyptologist, known for her groundbreaking work in using satellite imagery to identify potential archaeological sites. She has made significant contributions to the field through her research and excavations in Egypt, Rome, and other parts of the former Roman Empire. As a professor of Anthropology and the director of the Laboratory for Global Observation at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Parcak has not only expanded our understanding of ancient civilizations but also revolutionized the way modern archaeology is conducted.
Born in Bangor, Maine, Parcak developed a passion for archaeology at an early age. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Egyptology and Archaeological Studies from Yale University in 2001, laying the foundation for her academic career. She later pursued a Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge, further specializing in her field of interest. Prior to her current role at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Parcak served as a teacher of Egyptian art and history at the University of Wales, Swansea.
During her undergraduate studies at Yale, Parcak embarked on her first archaeological digs in Egypt and also took a remote sensing course, which would shape the trajectory of her career. It was during this time that she began exploring the use of satellite imagery to uncover hidden archaeological sites. She discovered that by analyzing differences in topography, geology, and plant life captured by satellites, she could identify structures and settlements that were otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
Parcak’s groundbreaking work started to gain recognition in 2003 when she used satellite images and surface surveys to purportedly discover 17 new pyramids and numerous archaeological sites dating back to 3,000 B.C. However, the validity of these findings has been a subject of debate and has not been confirmed by subsequent on-ground investigations. Nonetheless, her methodology presented a new approach to archaeological research, using satellite imagery to identify potential sites, thus reducing time and costs compared to traditional surface detection methods.
In partnership with her husband, Dr. Greg Mumford, Parcak directs survey and excavation projects in the Faiyum, Sinai, and Egypt’s East Delta. Their collaboration harnesses the power of satellite imagery to locate water sources and archaeological sites. Parcak’s work has not only expanded our knowledge of ancient civilizations but also has aided in conservation efforts, as satellite imagery can help monitor and protect vulnerable archaeological sites from looting and encroachments.
In 2007, Parcak founded the Laboratory for Global Observation at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, further solidifying her commitment to using cutting-edge technology in archaeology. Her work extends beyond Egypt, and she has leveraged satellite imagery to study archaeological sites in Rome and other regions of the former Roman Empire. This interdisciplinary approach has spawned new insights into the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations and the networks that shaped human history.
Parcak’s dedication and innovation have earned her numerous accolades and recognition in the field of archaeology. She was awarded the prestigious $1 million TED Prize in 2016, further highlighting the impact of her work and her commitment to utilizing satellite technology for the betterment of archaeology and cultural heritage preservation. While her discoveries and contributions have created controversy at times, Parcak’s pioneering spirit and tireless efforts have undoubtedly propelled the field of archaeology into new frontiers.
Awards:
– Recipient of the $1 million TED Prize in 2016.