Bioarchaeology is one of the most exciting areas of archaeological science and biomolecules (e.g. DNA, proteins, lipids) are at the forefront of this research. This module provides hands-on practical experience in laboratory work, involving the collection, analysis and interpretation of biomolecular data (stable isotopes, ZooMS, lipids) to address archaeological questions.
A directed option - students must pick a Practical Skills module and have a choice of which to take (one in Semester 1)
Occurrence | Teaching period |
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A | Semester 1 2023-24 |
The Practical Skills modules seek to introduce you to a range of skills in various diverse areas of archaeological practice and are designed to allow you to gain experience in a 'hands-on' manner. Specifically, this module introduces students to a range of techniques and skills involving the collection, analysis and interpretation of biomolecular data.
This module aims to:
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
In this module, students will learn about multiple biomolecular techniques including stable isotope analysis, ZooMS (proteins), and organic residue analysis. In a mix of lectures, seminar workshops and practical sessions in the wet chemistry laboratory and computer laboratory, students will be introduced to common biomolecular techniques used in archaeology, from sampling through to data analysis and interpretation. Laboratory sessions will concentrate on collagen extraction for both isotopic and proteomic analysis, with a focus on good laboratory practice (GLP) and following standard operating procedures (SOP). This module will give students a good basis for working in a professional/research laboratory.
Task | % of module mark |
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Essay/coursework | 100 |
None
Task | % of module mark |
---|---|
Essay/coursework | 100 |
Formative: written feedback from module leaders
Summative: written feedback within the University's turnaround policy
Craig, O.E., Saul, H., Spiteri, C. (2020) “Residue Analysis,” in Richards, M.P. and Britton, K. (eds) Archaeological Science: An Introduction. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 70-98.
Richards, M.P. (2020) “Isotope Analysis for Diet Studies,” in Richards, M.P. and Britton, K. (eds) Archaeological Science: An Introduction. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp.125-144.
Hendy, J., van Doorn, N. and Collins, M. (2020) “Proteomics,” in Richards, M.P. and Britton, K. (eds) Archaeological Science: An Introduction. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp. 35–69.