Osteology
Last updated 18 April 2008
The osteology team consists of experts in the identification and analysis of human and faunal remains. A holistic approach to the archaeology allows us to gain the most we can from the evidence retrieved. Our post-excavation assessments rapidly evaluate the potential of the remains, producing detailed and accurate costs for any further work required.
Human osteology
By establishing the sex, age at death and health of individuals and populations, we gain information on the environment in which these people lived. Working to recognised standards, our experienced human osteologists have recorded some of the largest skeletal assemblages in the British Isles.
A full list of sites investigated and the 'grey literature' produced can be found by clicking on the following link. The list is updated at the start of each year. MoLAS human osteology data January 2008 (PDF 53kb)
Data produced is recorded to a relational database also used by the Centre for Human Bioarchaeology, allowing direct comparison with the extensive collections of the Museum of London where appropriate
Services include:
- assessment, recording, analysis and interpretation of inhumed and cremated remains from any period or region
- production of high quality osteological monographs and reports
- particular expertise in large, urban cemetery assemblages
- assistance with excavation and sampling strategies
- advice on scientific and chemical analyses, cleaning, handling and storage of human remains
- advice on the ethical and legal requirements of cemetery and crypt excavation
- on-site assistance and training for excavation staff
- in-house radiographic facilities
- documentary researchers with experience locating historic wills, parish registers and other documentary data
With a variety of complimentary academic interests, the team have published in conference proceedings and peer review journals, including the International Journal of Osteoarchaeology and the British Dental Journal.
Faunal remains
Faunal remains can provide evidence of diet, butchery practices, animal husbandry and trade, refuse disposal, craft and industry. This work assists in the reconstruction and interpretation of past environments and economies. Our zooarchaeologists work closely with our geoarchaeologists, analysing invertebrate remains, particularly foraminiferans, molluscs and crustaceans.
Services include:
- assessment, recording, analysis and interpretation of archaeological and modern animal bones
- special expertise in fish, birds, and mammals
- identification and interpretation of tool marks in bone
- advice on sampling strategies
- wet sieving and flotation of bulk samples for the recovery of faunal remains, with an emphasis on complete recovery
- preparation of faunal catalogues and archives
More information
Our team can provide workshops, day schools and lectures for specialist and non-specialist audiences. They have experience of teaching at secondary, undergraduate and post-graduate levels.
For further information contact Natasha Powers, BSc MSc MIFA RFP Head of Osteology on 020 7410 2200.
Read our environmental archaeology capability statement
See also forensic archaeology