EASTERN EUROPE HOLOCAUST MAPPING PROGRAM: RECENT GEOARCHAEOLOGICAL SUBSURFACE INVESTIGATIONS AND RESULTS FROM A HIGH IMPACT COLLABORATIVE UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH PROGRAM

Many Holocaust geoarchaeological site investigations lack geospatial tools that will provide images of the subsurface in a non-invasive and non-destructive manner. In addition, our team focuses in educating undergraduate students on the use of geospatial tools. Due to this expertise, we have been invited to work with several Lithuanian and Latvian organizations to conduct collaborative original research at multiple locations, including killing sites located at Liepāja, Šķēde, Jungfernhof and Šeduva. Objectives for the project include providing a high impact academic experience for multiple students, including those from underrepresented populations, through a student-faculty collaborative international joint research project. The students acquire geospatial data (e.g., ground penetrating radar, unmanned aerial vehicles) at sensitive and significant Holocaust sites and disseminate results on ESRI StoryMaps while in the field. Upon return, the students will collate, process, plot, and analyze the collected geospatial datasets and work with collaborators and Holocaust survivors to interpret the data as well as publish results at professional conferences. Recent results will be presented that highlight the discovery and location of Holocaust mass burial pits and trenches. The experience provides a transformational international learning experience as well as providing cross-cultural and team-building skillsets. Results will be incorporated into lecture/lab components of classes that are being taught at our respective institutes, as well as presentations within our community, as well as incorporated into professional workshops/webinars. It is important that geosciences take an active role in helping identify hidden/forgotten sites of underrepresented populations.