Contact:
Josie Thomas
BioArCh Administrator
Address:
BioArCh, Environment Building
Wentworth Way, York
YO10 5NG, UK
Stable isotope analysis is a well-established technique in archaeology for exploring diet and mobility in past populations. BioArCh has an international profile for excellence in stable isotope research investigating subsistence strategies across the globe, ranging from the Mesolithic to post-Medieval periods. We routinely conduct bulk stable isotope analysis of carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and sulphur (S, also informs on mobility) on a diverse range of organic samples including bone (collagen), tooth (dentine), hair and fur (keratin) and also deposits such as charred foodcrusts from ceramic vessels and archaeological plant remains. There are also facilities for analysing oxygen (O) and hydrogen (H/D) in organic material to inform on mobility.
We are also one of the few archaeological laboratories in the UK currently processing and analysing carbon and nitrogen isotopes in single amino acids of collagen (compound-specific isotope analysis), a relatively new technique to archaeology which provides higher resolution information on past diet than bulk analysis alone.
We have an interest in participating in outside collaborative projects. For further information contact our administrator, Josie Thomas.
Some of our past research includes: