# Doctoral Dissertation Research: Craft Specialization and Economic Organization

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Regents of the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor (MI) · $31,500

## Abstract

This doctoral dissertation project investigates the role of craft specialization in shaping social roles and economic relations within village societies. Although the organization and socioeconomic role of craft specialists can vary depending on a society's level of complexity, craft production is integrated into both socioeconomic systems and relationships. Craft specialization can be detected archaeologically through careful examination of household spatial organization, house inventories, and the accumulation of goods. Previous Neolithic research has mainly focused on identifying craft specialization and exchange networks at the site level, whereas, this study focuses on both, as well as the production of items intended for exchange. The project provide scientific training opportunities for students in field methods and artifact analysis.

The research team conducts expansive excavations of Neolithic houses, analyze artifacts, and documents house inventories to determine whether one or more households were involved in tool production, trace their exchange with other villages in the area, and look at the accumulation of goods to look if there are any differences related to craft production, house size, and quantity of goods. The team also examines faunal and botanical remains and investigates any differences in economic modes of subsistence, land ownership, and status within the community. The data collected helps to develop a model for understanding household craft spec

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2520366
- **Awardee organization:** Regents of the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor (MI)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** GNJ7BBP73WE9
- **PI:** Michael L Galaty
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** ARCHAEOLOGY
- **Estimated total:** $31,500
- **Funds obligated:** $31,500
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2026

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2520366

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2520366, Doctoral Dissertation Research: Craft Specialization and Economic Organization. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2520366. Licensed CC0.

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