Capability for Human Bioarchaeology and Digital Collections
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Bradford
Department Name: Faculty of Life Sciences
Abstract
The University of Bradford has an immense digital heritage collection, generated from its world-leading collection of human skeletal remains, 3D replication of heritage sites and museum collections, and large-scale marine surveys of lost landscapes. However over time the analysis of and access to this collection has become limited by the technical infrastructure. By upgrading this infrastructure it will be possible to integrate our digital collections and share them online with researchers and the public, allowing much greater use of this data for research and education. Upgrading will involve two main components, upgrading the data sharing technology and upgrading the data capture technology.
The University led on use of digitised data online through its Digitised Diseases project, where researchers accessed images of bone modifications that resulted from a range of diseases. This catalysed our digital heritage capabilities that are today highly regarded in multi-disciplinary research. Almost a decade later, technology has moved on and to ensure researchers continue to have useful and quality access to our collections, investment in refreshed digital infrastructure is of critical importance. By upgrading our IT capacity we will be able to share a majority or our collections with researchers and educators through a stable and secure online platform.
The starting point for Digitised Diseases was the sharing of data on human skeletal remains by the Biological Anthropology Research Centre (BARC). BARC, a focal point for international research, specialises in the analysis of modern and ancient human skeletal remains. These are a fragile resource that can be accidentally damaged through handling and sometimes need to be destroyed as part of complex analysis procedures. As a result the management of such a collection involves the careful evaluation of conservation and research requirements and needs access to facilities of the highest standard to maximise benefit while minimising handling.
When capturing digital data from human remains it is very important to ensure two things are considered. 1) Resolution - Digital copies need to capture the finest details possible so that they can be analysed instead of the original sample 2) The techniques used are appropriate and optimal - so that the limited and fragile resource is not wasted. This project therefore aims to upgrade our biochemical analysis facilities along with microscale 3D documentation methods. By upgrading our x-ray capabilities to a dedicated CT and micro-CT facility we will be able to capture much more information with minimal handling of specimens, improving our world-class capability as a leading hub for imaging in human bioarchaeology research.
Bradford has pioneered prospection for wide-ranging heritage needs encompassing UNESCO World Heritage Sites; complex historic environments - covering dense urban settings; diverse rural landscapes environments; trans-national scale marine surveys interacting with commercial and national heritage agencies. We work with past heritage landscapes, the historic environment and the contemporary environment today. We have immense collections that need to be supported by rapidly changing technology that is fuelled by the questions from the research community.
Integrating data sharing and digital capture facilities is the core goal. By increasing the data available from the human remains collection and combining it with environmental and site data in our collections a rich digital discoverable and searchable research environment will be created. This specifically allows capacity to place our biological collections within real-world or reconstructed digital environments, providing a rich virtual environment for researchers and educators.
The University led on use of digitised data online through its Digitised Diseases project, where researchers accessed images of bone modifications that resulted from a range of diseases. This catalysed our digital heritage capabilities that are today highly regarded in multi-disciplinary research. Almost a decade later, technology has moved on and to ensure researchers continue to have useful and quality access to our collections, investment in refreshed digital infrastructure is of critical importance. By upgrading our IT capacity we will be able to share a majority or our collections with researchers and educators through a stable and secure online platform.
The starting point for Digitised Diseases was the sharing of data on human skeletal remains by the Biological Anthropology Research Centre (BARC). BARC, a focal point for international research, specialises in the analysis of modern and ancient human skeletal remains. These are a fragile resource that can be accidentally damaged through handling and sometimes need to be destroyed as part of complex analysis procedures. As a result the management of such a collection involves the careful evaluation of conservation and research requirements and needs access to facilities of the highest standard to maximise benefit while minimising handling.
When capturing digital data from human remains it is very important to ensure two things are considered. 1) Resolution - Digital copies need to capture the finest details possible so that they can be analysed instead of the original sample 2) The techniques used are appropriate and optimal - so that the limited and fragile resource is not wasted. This project therefore aims to upgrade our biochemical analysis facilities along with microscale 3D documentation methods. By upgrading our x-ray capabilities to a dedicated CT and micro-CT facility we will be able to capture much more information with minimal handling of specimens, improving our world-class capability as a leading hub for imaging in human bioarchaeology research.
Bradford has pioneered prospection for wide-ranging heritage needs encompassing UNESCO World Heritage Sites; complex historic environments - covering dense urban settings; diverse rural landscapes environments; trans-national scale marine surveys interacting with commercial and national heritage agencies. We work with past heritage landscapes, the historic environment and the contemporary environment today. We have immense collections that need to be supported by rapidly changing technology that is fuelled by the questions from the research community.
Integrating data sharing and digital capture facilities is the core goal. By increasing the data available from the human remains collection and combining it with environmental and site data in our collections a rich digital discoverable and searchable research environment will be created. This specifically allows capacity to place our biological collections within real-world or reconstructed digital environments, providing a rich virtual environment for researchers and educators.
Publications
Moore, J.
(2022)
Visual Heritage: Digital Approaches in Heritage Science
Sou, L.
(2022)
Visual Heritage: Digital Approaches in Heritage Science
Description | This CapCo infrastructure project was concerned with upscaling digital capture facilities, potential for data integration and data sharing in order to create a National capability that includes cross-sectional imaging for human bioarchaeology and contextual recording of heritage assets and digital twins. By increasing the data available from the human remains collection and combining it with environmental and site data in our collections a rich digital discoverable and searchable research environment will be created. This specifically allows capacity to place our biological collections within real-world or reconstructed digital environments, providing a rich virtual environment for researchers and educators. |
Exploitation Route | We seek to integrate this National capability into Arts & Humanities Research as part of the new RICHeS programme. |
Sectors | Construction,Creative Economy,Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software),Education,Leisure Activities, including Sports, Recreation and Tourism,Government, Democracy and Justice,Culture, Heritage, Museums and Collections,Security and Diplomacy,Transport |
URL | https://unibradfordac.sharepoint.com/sites/rais-intranet/SitePages/%C2%A33m-archaeology-grant-to-boost-Bradford%E2%80%99s-digital-research-capability.aspx |
Description | CapCo infrastructure has been used across a range of AHRC funded projects and other research activities. This funded new National capabilities, including the installation of the UK's first FujiFilm NewTom 7G cone beam CT unit (in any setting - clinical, or otherwise); and the second-only Zeiss MetroTom 1500 micro CT in a UK University. The timing of this investment is significant because this infrastructure will contribute in many different ways to runway projects that build towards Bradford's role as City of Culture in 2025. |
First Year Of Impact | 2022 |
Sector | Creative Economy,Digital/Communication/Information Technologies (including Software),Education,Leisure Activities, including Sports, Recreation and Tourism,Government, Democracy and Justice,Culture, Heritage, Museums and Collections,Transport |
Impact Types | Cultural,Societal,Economic,Policy & public services |
Description | Capability for Human Bioarchaeology and Digital Collections |
Amount | £2,999,856 (GBP) |
Funding ID | AH/V01255X/1 |
Organisation | Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC) |
Sector | Public |
Country | United Kingdom |
Start | 02/2022 |
End | 09/2022 |
Description | UK-IRL Collaboration in Digital Humanities |
Organisation | University College Cork |
Country | Ireland |
Sector | Academic/University |
PI Contribution | Co-design and development of bid, WPs, fieldwork, analysis and public engagement/ outreach. |
Collaborator Contribution | Co-design and development of bid, WPs, fieldwork, analysis and public engagement/ outreach. |
Impact | Strong partnership involving knowledge exchange, joint fieldwork and public engagement activities. |
Start Year | 2020 |
Description | University of Dar es Salaam, Dept. of Archaeology & Heritage Studies |
Organisation | University of Dar es Salaam |
Country | Tanzania, United Republic of |
Sector | Academic/University |
PI Contribution | International CoI is based in the Dept. of Archaeology & Heritage Studies |
Collaborator Contribution | Co-creation and co-development of this project; organised and coordinated fieldwork/ logistics in TZA. |
Impact | Joint authorship in publications; Joint fieldwork; Conference organisation; Outreach events responding to the UN Year for the Creative Economy |
Start Year | 2021 |
Description | University of St Andrews |
Organisation | University of St Andrews |
Country | United Kingdom |
Sector | Academic/University |
PI Contribution | Joint application; joint fieldwork; joint outputs |
Collaborator Contribution | Co-design and development of bid; joint fieldwork; joint project outputs |
Impact | Creative response at Bagamoyo Festival and planned for ZIFF; Joint conference presentations/ session |
Start Year | 2021 |
Description | Virtual Bradford |
Organisation | Bradford Metropolitan District Council |
Country | United Kingdom |
Sector | Public |
PI Contribution | Development of City-scale digital twin for Bradford and related replication in AHRC-funded works for Saltaire UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bagamoyo (Tanzania) and Kilmallock (Ireland). |
Collaborator Contribution | Weekly partnership meetings and strong collaboration through knowledge exchange. |
Impact | Mentioned in the launch of the Digital Strategy for the City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council |
Start Year | 2020 |
Description | Being Human Festival 'Reimagining the Heart of Bradford' (14/16th Nov 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Other audiences |
Results and Impact | Presentation to recent migrants to Bradford enrolled at Bradford College. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://www.bradford.ac.uk/events/public/re-imaging-the-heart-of-bradford.php |
Description | Big Bradford Reunion (24 Sep 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Other audiences |
Results and Impact | Alumni event showcasing work of Virtual Bradford/ Visualising Heritage |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://www.bradford.ac.uk/alumni/big-bradford-reunion-2022/ |
Description | Board to Board with West Yorkshire Police (28 Nov 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
Results and Impact | Briefing to Board to Board Meeting Between West Yorkshire Police and UoB Senior Management Teams |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | Briefing to Mercy Mission (31 Jan 23) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Supporters |
Results and Impact | Scoping visit with charitable organisation Mercy Mission |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
Description | Briefing to University Court at UoB (14 Dec 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Supporters |
Results and Impact | Briefing to University Court |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | CaCHE Sheffield workshop with 3 Place Programme Projects (20 Oct 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Panel discussion and presentations as part of a joint event with 3x PIs from the Place Programme |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/socialpolitical/research/urbanstudies/projects/place-basedresearchprog... |
Description | CommUNIty Open Day (26 Mar 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Showcase event and talk |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://www.bradford.ac.uk/events/public/unify-community-open-day---cafe-sessions.php |
Description | Digital Heritage Making a Difference to Local and Global Challenges (27 Jun 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
Results and Impact | Visit of Vivienne Stern MBE |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | Digital Heritage: Making a Difference to Local & Global Challenges (26 Sep 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
Results and Impact | Visit of Anne Spinali and Paul Williams |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | First Visit of Anita Rani Prior to Installation as Chancellor (9 Jan 23) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Supporters |
Results and Impact | Talk/ Showcase on the occasion of the first visit of new Chancellor Anita Rani. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
URL | https://www.bradford.ac.uk/news/archive/2023/anita-rani-vows-to-inspire-students-during-first-visit-... |
Description | FoLS Research Away Day (25 Jan 23) - Visualising Heritage: Capabilities for Collaboration |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Local |
Primary Audience | Other audiences |
Results and Impact | Faculty Away Day - Showcasing CapCo investment |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
Description | Gothenberg - VIRTUAL BRADFORD - an Open 3D City model (Apr 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Study participants or study members |
Results and Impact | Partnership event linked to EU SCORE Project |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://northsearegion.eu/score |
Description | Hidden Heritages Workshop (19 Nov 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Event held at National Museum of Ireland |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | Launch of Digital Strategy for Bradford (27 Sep 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
Results and Impact | Launch of Digital Strategy for Bradford - naming Virtual Bradford as a key enabler |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://www.bradford.ac.uk/news/archive/2022/bradfords-first-digital-twin-has-been-completed.php |
Description | National Trust: A Virtual Future for Heritage (10 Nov 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Presentation of capabilities for heritage professionals within the National Trust |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | Nottingham PropTech Meeting (6 Mar 23) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Meeting at University of Nottingham with other Place Programme Project (Dr Chris King) and partners including Bradford Council and Nottingham City Council re digital twins |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | Saltaire: People, Heritage & Place Using Heritage to Enhance Community and Wellbeing - Place Programme KE Project Event |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Study participants or study members |
Results and Impact | Joint workshop for Place Programme KE projects, on the theme of 'What Works' |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/socialpolitical/research/urbanstudies/projects/place-basedresearchprog... |
Description | Shetland Museum & Archives - Visualising Heritage: From Discoverability to Dissemination (26 May 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Radio interview with BBC Radio Shetland; Evening guest lectures; Daytime launch event; Training for practitioners; Fieldwork using CapCo kit |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://www.shetlandamenity.org/visualising-shetlands-iron-age |
Description | UDSM talk (13 May 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
Results and Impact | Guest lecture at University of Dar es Salaam |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | UK Authority AI and Data4Good (14 Oct 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
Results and Impact | Presentation for UK Authority |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
URL | https://www.ukauthority.com/events/ai-data4good-2022/ |
Description | Virtual Bradford showcase UoB, Bradford Council, Nottingham CC (28 Nov 22) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | joint workshop hosted by Bradford Council |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
Description | Visit of Bradford Museums & Galleries - Capabilities for Collaboration (27 Feb 23) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
Results and Impact | Showcase visit with exploration of potential for collaboration |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
Description | WYorks Police - Virtual Twinning of Public Spaces & Venues (9 Feb 23) |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | Regional |
Primary Audience | Other audiences |
Results and Impact | Meeting with Counter Terrorism Team with WYorks Police |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |