Zooarchaeology has become an indispensable component of archaeological research across the Mediterranean. Zooarchaeologists routinely generate datasets that shed light on diverse aspects of human history—such as diet, mobility, economy, trade, social organization, and changing patterns in animal use. However, despite these significant efforts, much of the research remains fragmented. Datasets are often produced independently, confined to specific regions, and often published in local languages, limiting accessibility for the wider international research community. These challenges hinder the development of large-scale, comparative studies and the identification of overarching patterns in animal–human interactions across the ancient Mediterranean. 

The MED-Zooarch network was established to address a critical gap in Mediterranean zooarchaeological research by creating a coordinated, multi-proxy, and collaborative platform for zooarchaeologists working in or focusing on the region. In complementary alignment with formal associations such as the International Council for Archaeozoology (ICAZ), our goal is to foster an interconnected and inclusive network where researchers—particularly early-career zooarchaeologists—can actively collaborate and exchange knowledge without the need for formal membership. 

We will promote both traditional zooarchaeological methods and cutting-edge archaeological sciences to create a more holistic understanding of animal-human-environment dynamics. A key outcome of this network-building will be the advancement of open data and open science practices, ensuring that methodologies, datasets, and findings are widely accessible. The network also prioritizes the empowerment of early-career zooarchaeologists/researchers by offering opportunities for international collaboration and mentorship from senior scholars. 

To date, colleagues from seventeen countries—including Algeria, Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Jordan, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Serbia, Spain, Tunisia, Türkiye, and the United Kingdom—have joined the initiative. We warmly welcome all scholars and early-career researchers affiliated with or conducting zooarchaeological research in the Mediterranean region to participate in this collaborative network. 

Core objectives of MED-Zooarch network: 

• Foster a comprehensive network for investigating animal–human–environment relationships across Mediterranean sub-regions and time periods. 

• Integrate multi-proxy approaches, combining traditional zooarchaeological techniques with advanced scientific methods (e.g., isotope analysis, lipid residue analysis, aDNA). 

• Develop a shared ontology and standardized glossary to ensure methodological consistency and enhance regional comparability. 

• Promote open science, making zooarchaeological datasets and methodologies freely accessible, especially to students and early-career researchers. 

• Address regional disparities by supporting capacity building, facilitating knowledge exchange, and encouraging collaboration between senior and early-career zooarchaeologists from both EU and non-EU Mediterranean countries.