Research in Progress. 27 November 2026

 

 

McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
Courtyard Building, Downing Street
Cambridge CB2 3ER
United Kingdom

 

27 November 2026. Start 9.30 am. GMT

 

This year, we have chosen a hybrid format to combine the flexibility and accessibility of remote participation with the valuable opportunities for face-to-face discussion, collaboration, and networking that are central to our community. While online attendance will remain fully available for those unable to travel, we warmly encourage participants to join us in Cambridge if possible.

The Research in Progress Meeting provides a friendly forum for presenting ongoing research in historical and archaeological metallurgy. We welcome papers on any aspect of the production, use, and significance of metals in the past, including approaches from archaeological science, typological studies, and theoretical perspectives. Topics may include (but are not limited to):

  • Mining and ore procurement strategies
  • Smelting practices and technologies
  • Smithing techniques, refining, alloying, and metalworking processes
  • Use, reuse, recycling, repair, and deposition of metal objects
  • Experimental approaches to metallurgical practices
  • Production organisation, technological traditions, innovations, and cross-craft interactions
  • Trade, exchange, provenance, and circulation of metal stock and objects
  • Social, economic, and cultural significance of metals
  • Conservation and heritage science of metal artefacts
  • Fieldwork and recovery techniques for metal artefacts and metallurgical remains

We warmly encourage submissions from diverse chronological and geographical contexts, and especially welcome contributions from students, early career researchers, and those working outside academia. Contributors are encouraged to submit work in progress as well as completed research.

Programme

The programme for the day will be published here when complete.

Refreshments

The £20 joining fee covers refreshments during breaks, a buffet lunch and a wine reception at the end of the day.