Nicky Rogers, finds researcher Researchers who study archaeological collections are many and varied. Some specialise in defined periods (for example, Roman or medieval), others in particular materials (for example, glass or pottery) and others in specific technologies (for example, metalworking or building techniques).
Specialists
Most specialisms are divided into sub-studies (for example, medieval painted window glass, Roman vessel glass). Scientific and analytical techniques take the study further, investigating, for example, the composition of metals and alloys which have been used to decorate objects, or perhaps the impressions left by organic materials such as cloth on other, less perishable, materials.

First find your specialist
Some researchers operate from archaeological units, museums and university departments. Others operate individually as freelance specialists, having developed expertise in particular areas. Co-operation and partnerships with other institutions such as hospitals and commercial companies can also provide useful results and access to equipment which would otherwise be unavailable.

Ailsa Mainman, pottery researcher

Spreading the word
Specialists are invited to study objects to enable archaeologists to glean the maximum information from them. Some object types are common and have little new to offer, while others are well worth thorough research by a team of specialists. The results are added to the computer records and, wherever possible, published, making new information available to others working in related fields.

Museum displays can be developed to tell new stories using the results of specialist work and the past re-interpreted through books, lectures, the web and other media.