Richard Griffiths is a Research Fellow at the International Institute for Asian Studies in Leiden, and the Founder and Curator of the Silk Road Virtual Museum. With a distinguished career in economic and social history, he has led major research projects on the Silk Road and virtual museum development. His current work explores the intersection of digital heritage and maritime archaeology, focusing on the role of virtual exhibitions in preserving and interpreting underwater cultural heritage. The upcoming Maritime Silk Roads section of the Silk Road Virtual Museum reflects this commitment, integrating shipwreck discoveries with historical trade networks to foster greater public engagement and academic collaboration.