Martin Gibbs

Martin Gibbs is Professor of Australian Archaeology within the School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences at the University of New England. Appointed in 2014, he has previously taught at the University of Western Australia, James Cook University and University of Sydney. His academic journey began with a BSc (Hons) from the University of Western Australia, followed by a PhD from the same institution in 2006.

Gibbs' research focuses on historical and maritime archaeologies of the Australia-Pacific region, with particular emphasis on convict systems, Pacific archaeology, and maritime heritage. His work bridges academic research with public engagement through digital platforms like the Convict Landscapes interactive webmap (https://convictlandscapes.com.au/). Current major projects include 'Landscapes of Production and Punishment' exploring industrial aspects of the convict system, and research on WWII sites in the Solomon Islands conducted in collaboration with the Solomon Islands National Museum.

His publication record demonstrates consistent scholarly output, with recent articles examining convict labor systems, maritime industries, and Pacific archaeology. The research trends show a growing integration of digital humanities approaches with traditional archaeological methods, particularly in mapping convict landscapes and life courses. His work increasingly incorporates interdisciplinary perspectives, bringing together archaeology, history, and digital technologies.

• Society of Antiquaries (London) membership

Gibbs has supervised numerous PhD students to completion, with research topics spanning convict archaeology, maritime heritage, Pacific archaeology, and WWII sites. His supervision record demonstrates a commitment to developing the next generation of archaeologists. Current research includes ARC-funded projects examining convict labor management and industrial aspects of penal systems. He co-founded the Archaeology of Sydney Research Group and established NSW Archaeology Online, a digital archive preserving 40 years of archaeological reports.

Gibbs maintains active research laboratories and field projects, particularly through the 'Landscapes of Production and Punishment' project which involves collaboration between UNE, UTas and the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority. His work with the Solomon Islands National Museum represents significant international engagement and capacity building in Pacific archaeology.