Research
Museum of London actively encourages the undertaking of research using its wide range of archaeological and historical holdings. At the Centre for Human Bioarchaeology, we welcome visitors from all over the world, who investigate a diverse range of research questions using our unique samples.
General information
Before visiting the Centre, please check to see if one of our two bench-spaces are available by checking the Calendar of bench bookings. This calendar is regularly updated and also shows when the Centre is closed (including bank holidays).
We strongly advise researchers to consult our online collection information, and to investigate the cemetery samples using WORD data and photography downloads. These resources allow researchers to more accurately complete the 'research application' form.
Please note that the Romano-British collections are still undergoing analysis and recording on to the WORD database, and as such are currently closed to external researchers. The sample from St Mary Spital (SRP98) will be accessible from Spring 2013.
See a list of previous research and publications about the samples we curate.
See information for researchers wishing to undertake destructive sampling studies using the Museum of London's collections.
Forms must be returned to the Centre before funding applications are made, as the Centre cannot guarantee access to the collections for study and/or permit destructive sampling after awards have been made.
Applications will be vetted by staff from the Centre for Human Bioarchaeology. Collections still in the care of MOL Archaeology will also be vetted by the Head of Osteology at MOL Archaeology. Further advice will be sought as necessary.
Bench fees
Stewardship offered by the Centre for Human Bioarchaeology is dependent upon existing staff commitments and availability of our two bench-spaces, and acceptance of these conditions is subject to a bench fee. The rates for study visits from the 1st of August 2012 will be: £25 (+VAT) per day, £70(+VAT) per week, and £300 (+VAT) per month. If you would like the Centre to organise a study day, please email us (chb@museumoflondon.org.uk). Fees can be paid by cash, debit/credit card or cheque.
Please contact us if you have any concerns about how this charge may affect your intended study visit.
Studying at the Centre
Working hours are from 10am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. The Centre is closed on weekends and bank holidays. Please check the online calendar for information on other closures.
Visitors will be supervised by the Centre’s staff. In some circumstances, visitors may be supervised by a member of the archive or curatorial team. Copies of the Museum’s 'Research Ethics' document (available online) and ancillary documents may also be issued.
All accepted visitors must email us to confirm their attendance using the 'contact us' form at least one week before their visit. If you need to reschedule a visit, please contact us as soon as possible.
Please note that visitors to the Centre for Human Bioarchaeology are not covered by insurance.
Which forms should I submit?
We ask that all forms are returned at least six weeks before you wish to visit, as the Centre has limited bench-space.
Non-destructive studies: please return a research application form, stating the site code and context numbers of the human remains you wish to study (this information can be found using the data downloads); and a non-professional photography application form (if appropriate). If you are a student, we also require a covering letter from your supervisor.
Destructive testing studies: please return a research application form stating the site code and context numbers of the human remains you wish to analyse (this information can be found using the data downloads), an application form for destructive testing, and a non-professional photography application form. If you are a student, we also require a covering letter from your supervisor.
Please email or post your forms to: chb@museumoflondon.org.uk or The Centre for Human Bioarchaeology, Museum of London, 150 London Wall, London, EC2Y 5HN.
Application forms
