About
The Organisation
The Heritage Science Data Service provides core Digital Research Services as part of the RICHeS programme, to transform heritage science and conservation research and its capacity to advance understanding, preservation, and management of UK heritage.
Heritage science and conservation research has significant digital infrastructure requirements. These fields employ a broad range of technologies including: digital imaging (3D laser scanning, X-ray, infrared, XRF scanning etc), remote sensing (LiDAR, geophysics), 3D modelling, dating (dendrochronology, C14) and many others. Many of these complementary methods are used in tandem, generating numerous datasets at large scales that require active data management to ensure long-term preservation and re-use. This data is a primary resource, generally born-digital, which cannot be reacquired. It is therefore essential they are managed and curated according to the FAIR data principles.
Over the next five years, the HSDS will create:
- A catalogue of research facilities, reference collections and expertise;
- An aggregating function, making data collections navigable and searchable;
- A FAIR repository for research data, encouraging Access and Re-use, and ensuring datasets are preserved into the long term;
- A suite of Virtual Research Environments and software tools to allow researchers to visualise and analyse data.
Partners
The HSDS is developed and managed by the Archaeology Data Service, an innovative CoreTrustSeal repository managing archaeological and heritage science data since 1996, in partnership with STFC Hartree Centre, a high-performance computing, data analytics and AI research facility.
The Archaeology Data Service is the leading accredited repository in the UK for archaeology and historic environment data, with over 25 years of experience supporting research, learning and teaching with free, high quality and dependable digital resources. Founded in 1996, the core activity of the ADS is the long-term digital preservation of the data entrusted to our care.
STFC Hartree is part of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), one of Europe’s largest multidisciplinary scientific research organisations within UK Research and Innovation. Building on a wealth of established scientific heritage and a network of international expertise our experts collaborate with industry and the research community to explore the latest technologies, upskill teams, and apply practical digital solutions to individual and industry-wide challenges.
The HSDS also draws together key organisations and data providers within the sector from across the UK to draw on digital expertise and aid in the design of these facilities. These organisations include The British Museum, British Geological Survey, The National Gallery, The National Archives, Natural History Museum, Historic England, Historic Environment Scotland, Museum Wales, and Manchester Metropolitan University.
The Team
- Professor Julian Richards OBE - Director
- Julian has overall responsibility for the HSDS, representing this organisation and the ADS at key strategic events, in key partnerships, and high-profile projects.
- Dr Tim Evans - Assistant Director
- Tim has responsibility for all day-to-day operations of the HSDS, maintains and develops key partnerships and strategically important projects.
- Jo Tozer - Service Manager
- Jo is responsible for the establishment and operational delivery of the HSDS for users and depositors. Liaising with funders and partners, Jo manages the strategic development of this new service and represents the HSDS at national and international level.
Supported by Team members from the Archaeology Data Service.