José Miguel Pérez-Gómez has an extensive and diverse body of work, reflecting his commitment to both field exploration and academic research in archaeology and the natural sciences. His publications span pioneering studies in underwater cave diving, groundbreaking research on historical shipwrecks, and the exploration of ancient rock art in Venezuela. Each contribution has led to significant discoveries, expanding our understanding of South America’s historical and geographical landscape. Among his most notable works is his 2016 dissertation from the University of Leicester, in which he analyzed for the first time the catastrophic shipwreck of Louis XIV’s fleet in the Aves de Sotavento Archipelago, Venezuela. This research has provided crucial archaeological insights into one of history’s largest maritime disasters. In 2019, his remote sensing study confirmed the existence of the mythical Lake Parima, in southern Venezuela, blending historical archaeology with geographical exploration. Presented at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Munich, this discovery solidified his expertise in using satellite technologies for archaeological research.

Pérez-Gómez’s underwater exploration research, published in collaboration with Leonardo Llaneza and others, marked the first dives into Venezuela’s Quijano, Morocoima, and El Guácharo caves, representing an important milestone in the country’s speleological history. His work on La Tortuga Island, presented at the International Association for Caribbean Archaeology, uncovered salt mining activities at the island, which further demonstrates his versatility in historical archaeology, shedding light on the Atlantic connections of 17th-18th century Venezuela. His recent rock art research has garnered international recognition, particularly his 2023 study of newly discovered sites in the Canaima area, published in Rock Art Research Magazine. This work is crucial for understanding early human settlement in South America. Ongoing peer-reviewed publications and an the upcoming book on Canaima’s newly discovered rock art sites promise to further shape the field. Through his interdisciplinary approach and extensive publications, José Miguel Pérez-Gómez has not only uncovered ancient narratives but also paved the way for future generations to continue exploring and studying this rich cultural heritage.