
Speaking with the Dead – A day in the life of a Professional Osteologist
‘Osteoarchaeogy’ – loosely translated in this context as the study of human remains from archaeological deposits – as with any aspect of archaeology, can have its foot (no pun intended) in many camps. The varied perspectives, objectives, specific areas of interest and affiliations (e.g. universities, museums, scientific institutions, commercial archaeological companies) of those engaged in the study of ancient human remains all serves to enrich our understanding of one of the most intimate of materials that are recovered from archaeological sites. The ‘front end’ of any archaeological investigation is excavation, the vast majority of which in the UK are undertaken by commercial archaeological contractors ahead of construction work – housing, schools, roads and other forms of infrastructure. This is the world of the commercial osteoarchaeologist, with its varied demands and requirements. Welcome to my world … and its not just about bones.
This event is designed for the general public, no prior knowlege needed. There will be pictures of archaeological human remains.