ph. D student at Mazandaran University ,Iran
Fereshte Azarkhordad, a distinguished scholar in Islamic and digital archaeology, hails from Iran. With a Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology from the University of Birjand, a Master’s degree in Islamic Archaeology, and a Ph.D. in Digital Archaeology from the University of Mazandaran, she has devoted her career to understanding and preserving historical architecture. Her doctoral research utilizes artificial neural networks to analyze the historic city of Zuzan. Alongside her academic pursuits, Fereshte has gained hands-on experience through archaeological excavations and museum content development. She is currently an instructor at the University of Birjand, focusing on advancing archaeological research through digital tools. Her prolific contributions include journal articles, book reviews, and conference presentations, highlighting her expertise in Timurid architecture and computational archaeology. Proficient in GIS, AutoCAD, Python, and Metashape, Fereshte Azarkhordad is an accomplished researcher, educator, and innovator in her field.
professional profiles
Education
Mrs. Fereshte Azarkhordad’s academic journey reflects her deep commitment to advancing archaeological and cultural studies. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Archaeology from the University of Birjand (2011–2014), where she gained foundational knowledge in archaeological methodologies and practices. Continuing her studies at the same institution, she completed a Master’s Degree in Islamic Archaeology (2015–2017). Her thesis, titled “Recognition and Analysis of Geometric Proportions in Timurid Architecture”, scored an impressive 19/20 and won her the Outstanding Thesis Award in 2017. Currently, she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Digital Archaeology (2020–Present) at the University of Mazandaran, with her research focusing on the application of artificial neural networks in the archaeological analysis of Zuzan. As part of her doctoral program, she is undertaking a sabbatical (2024–2025) at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), receiving specialized training in advanced digital methodologies.
work Experience
Mrs. Azarkhordad has amassed valuable professional experience in diverse roles. In 2018, she served as Trench Manager during the archaeological excavation of Shirvan Tepe Arg, collaborating with the Iran-China joint board (Nanjing University). From 2018 to 2020, she worked as a Content Development Specialist at the Great Museum of Khorasan in Mashhad, where she was responsible for curatorial tasks and developing content for historical objects. Since 2020, she has been a University Instructor at the Faculty of Art, University of Birjand, teaching courses on Archaeology and Islamic Architecture. Her academic contributions include numerous peer-reviewed articles and conference presentations focused on applied geometry and digital techniques in archaeology.
Awards and Honors
Mrs. Azarkhordad’s dedication to excellence has been recognized through several awards and honors. She received the Outstanding Thesis Award (2017) for her exceptional master’s thesis on Timurid architecture. In 2020, she was awarded a prestigious Ph.D. Scholarship by the University of Mazandaran, acknowledging her innovative research in digital archaeology. Furthermore, in 2024, she secured an International Collaboration Grant, enabling her to undertake a sabbatical at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) and gain advanced training in digital archaeological methodologies.
Research Focus
Mrs. Azarkhordad’s research spans multiple interconnected domains within archaeology. Her primary focus is on Digital Archaeology, where she leverages artificial neural networks and deep learning technologies to analyze historical artifacts and sites. Her work on Timurid Architecture explores the intricate use of applied geometry in Islamic-era structures. Additionally, she delves into Islamic Archaeology, investigating the evolution of cultural heritage during the Islamic period, offering fresh insights into historical architectural practices and preservation.
Skills
Mrs. Azarkhordad possesses a broad range of technical and analytical skills. She is proficient in GIS (ArcMap) for spatial analysis and mapping, AutoCAD for designing and analyzing architectural layouts, and Python for applying machine learning and data analysis in archaeology. Her expertise also extends to Metashape, enabling her to perform photogrammetry and 3D reconstructions. Linguistically, she is fluent in Farsi (native) and has an advanced command of English, facilitating international collaboration and academic publication.
Conclusion
Fereshte Azarkhordad is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her blend of academic rigor, innovative use of technology, and a strong publication record positions her as a leader in digital and Islamic archaeology. Addressing areas like interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement can further amplify her contributions to the research community. Overall, her achievements and potential make her a deserving contender for this prestigious recognition.
Publications to Noted
Detecting Archaeological Phenomena Using Deep Learning in the Study of the Old Aerial Images of the Historical City of Zuzan
Authors: F. Azarkhordad, H.H. Zarajabad, et al.
Publication: Archaeological Studies
Publisher: Wiley Online Library
Year: 2024
Citations: Not available yet (2024 publication).