The National Archives to create centre of excellence for heritage science and conservation research

We are thrilled to announce that our analytical research laboratory has been awarded a staggering £1.3m to undergo a major upgrade, creating a state-of-the-art centre of excellence. This prestigious award is part of the UKRI Arts and Humanities Research Council’s new Research Infrastructure for Conservation and Heritage Science (RICHeS) programme, which is a significant £80m investment in research and innovation.

This exciting development will not only benefit our institution, but it will also be available to collections throughout the UK and beyond. The upgraded laboratory will provide cutting-edge facilities and equipment, making it a hub for conservation and heritage science research. This will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the preservation and understanding of our cultural heritage.

The RICHeS programme aims to support and enhance research and innovation in the fields of conservation and heritage science. It recognizes the vital role that these disciplines play in safeguarding our cultural heritage for future generations. With this generous award, we are proud to be a part of this important initiative and contribute to the advancement of these fields.

The upgraded laboratory will enable us to conduct a wide range of analytical research, including material analysis, dating techniques, and environmental monitoring. This will allow us to gain a deeper understanding of the materials and techniques used in the creation of cultural objects and artifacts. With this knowledge, we can better preserve and protect these valuable pieces of our history.

Moreover, the new facilities will also allow us to collaborate with other institutions and researchers, both nationally and internationally. This will not only enhance our own research capabilities but also foster a vibrant and dynamic research community. By working together, we can tackle complex conservation and heritage science challenges and make significant strides in our understanding of our cultural heritage.

The impact of this award goes beyond our institution and the research community. It will also benefit the wider public by providing access to cutting-edge research and promoting public engagement with our cultural heritage. The upgraded laboratory will be a valuable resource for students, scholars, and the general public, allowing them to learn about and appreciate our cultural heritage in new and exciting ways.

This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team of researchers and staff. It is a recognition of their expertise and the quality of their research. We are immensely proud of their achievements and are excited to see what they will accomplish with the new facilities and equipment.

We would also like to express our gratitude to the UKRI Arts and Humanities Research Council for their support and investment in our laboratory. This award will not only benefit our institution but also contribute to the advancement of conservation and heritage science research in the UK and beyond.

In conclusion, the £1.3m award to upgrade our analytical research laboratory is a significant milestone for our institution and the wider research community. It will create a centre of excellence for conservation and heritage science, providing cutting-edge facilities and equipment for research and collaboration. We are grateful for this opportunity and look forward to the positive impact it will have on the preservation and understanding of our cultural heritage.