A multiscale X-ray imaging Centre will be established in the British Museum, with a unique range of capabilities in the heritage science sector. The Centre will comprise: (i) Our existing large-scale X-ray imaging laboratory, the X-radiography Suite (ii) A new high-resolution micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) laboratory. (iii) High-performance workstations for users to analyse and visualise data. (iv) An Access Manager to provide access to the Centre for the heritage science community. X-ray imaging is a fundamental technique in heritage science, providing a non-invasive way to look under the surface of archaeological and heritage collections. CT scanning (three-dimensional X-ray imaging) has limitations for different material types and/or object size, with instruments typically providing a trade-off between the size and density of object they can accommodate, and minimum feature size they can detect. The X-radiography Suite in the British Museum is capable of imaging large objects (e.g., sculptures, coffins), and its high-energy X-rays can be used to see inside stone and metal objects. A new micro-CT scanner, capable of microscopic-level X-ray examination of smaller and less dense material, will enhance and complement the capabilities of the X-radiography Suite. The Centre will provide a dynamic environment where objects can be scanned across both instruments, exploiting the relative benefits of each, and providing a single location in which diverse material assemblages can be imaged. The Centre will be used for a wide range of applications, including the examination of skeletal remains to research ancient health and disease; characterising the use of wood, textile and human/animal remains in crafted objects; the study of minerals, organic matter and production techniques in archaeological ceramics; understanding the manufacture and restoration of sculptures; and revealing hidden text from rolled scrolls. As well as research outputs, X-ray imaging has enormous potential for public engagement through visualisations displayed in exhibitions, gallery displays or online content. Currently there are barriers to X-ray imaging in heritage science, in the cost of purchasing or accessing equipment, staff capacity to facilitate access and staff expertise to interpret scans of complex objects. The British Museum is well-placed to complement the existing landscape of CT scanning institutions and frameworks in the UK: its scientists and curators have world-leading knowledge of heritage collections and are experienced in handling and examining cultural heritage material. The Museum has an established logistics infrastructure for the transport and secure storage of heritage assets, and a strong track record of utilising X-ray CT in academic publications and exhibitions in the UK and globally.

Abstracts are not currently available in GtR for all funded research. This is normally because the abstract was not required at the time of proposal submission, but may be because it included sensitive information such as personal details.

"The aim of the AHRC Infrastructure Policy and Engagement Fellowships is to undertake research and engagement around three thematic areas, to inform and facilitate the design of a national research infrastructure in heritage science and conservation research (HSCR), creating an evidence base to inform strategic vision and investment. We are looking for heritage science and conservation researchers in UK IROs and universities who are keen to develop their skills in policy and cultivate an in-depth understanding of the HSCR landscape through data analysis and community engagement." "Fellows will compile a literature, capacity and capability review of their thematic area, assessing the current UK heritage sector and university-based HSCR facilities, the relevant skills pipelines (or lack thereof) and potential points of synergy and collaboration with the wider scientific research community. Working closely with one another, with experts drawn from the heritage science community, and with colleagues within AHRC and across UKRI, successful Fellows will make recommendations for future action and investment, and produce a strategic delivery plan for the research infrastructure and its associated programme."

The Money in Africa project in the Department of Coins and Medals at the British Museum is focusing on the history of money and trade in Africa, bringing together scholars from across disciplinary and national boundaries to, for the first time, produce a clear account of the state of knowledge in this important research area. Working with the Camden Black Parents and Teachers Association (CBPTA) we plan to use these research results and this new knowledge not only to further the academic study of the subject, but also to reach broader audiences through the creation of new educational resources and teacher support. This will mean that the important academic outcomes of the Money in Africa project extend beyond academe, and have an impact on cultural understanding and educational achievement within and beyond the Black community in Britain.

The current proposal aims to implement a new approach to fieldwork in Egypt by looking at the broad spectrum of history - up until the present day - at multi-layered sites, including efforts to preserve heritage rather than only researching it. The project will undertake and develop a sustainable conservation policy for archaeological sites using the Asyut region in Middle Egypt, and the village of Shutb in particular, as a case-study. Rather than merely looking upon archaeological sites as salvage missions or narrow-eyed academic pursuits, the project supports local interests to better the lives of local communities so that they can function as working partners in preserving the site. The envisioned methodology promotes (1) better integration of preservation and heritage management methodologies and specialists into archaeological fieldwork projects, (2) coordination and collaboration amongst different institutions and agencies concerned with heritage preservation, (3) engaging with local communities, local heritage professionals and other stakeholders through training and capacity building by hands-on experience and implementation of policies. To achieve these goals, the British Museum will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team of Egypt-based consultants and local stakeholders to develop a set of protection measures in order to uphold Shutb's archaeological value, to prevent further decay of the historic fabric and to enhance the socio-economic (living) conditions of the inhabitants. To this means, two seasons of fieldwork in Shutb will include a series of surveys and meetings to assess the impact and perception of the village's presence on the archaeological remains, identifying and prioritizing meaningful ways of intervention and a documentation training mission. Many of the defined threats to heritage also negatively affect people's health, such as proximity to garbage disposal and ground and water pollution. The gathered survey data will be used to define programmes to reduce and redirect garbage dumping and improve waste and water management systems of residential units to reduce ground pollution and increase personal health. Depending on the outcome of the community meetings and interviews; the project will develop solutions to the community's most pressing needs. Such an all-inclusive approach has never been tested in Egypt, where fieldwork has traditionally been physically and intellectually separated from the surrounding environment and communities. It is, however, an opportune moment to develop more sustainable methodologies as ancient tells are at risk from the forces of nature and the impact of social, political, and economic change.Through collaboration with the Ministry of Antiquities, the impact of the established methodology can be accelerated if implemented at other sites or -even more fundamentally- incorporated into governmental strategies.