Visiting Researcher
Who considers requests for permission to study material from the LOA collections?
Requests for permission to study material from the collections in the Laboratory of Archaeology (LOA) are considered by the LOA Committee. Requests should be made in writing to the Director, Laboratory of Archaeology, Anthropology and Sociology, UBC.
What factors affect LOA's decision?
Factors affecting the approval of research requests include: the approval of applicable First Nations communities; the purpose of the research; the condition of the material; any conditions requested by the First Nations groups involved; the duration of the research and whether or not the research will be conducted in the laboratories of the LOA.
Notification of First Nations
Visiting researchers applying to conduct detailed analysis of artifacts under the care of the LOA must first notify in writing the respective First Nations groups (Band, Tribal, or National Councils) of their intention to conduct the proposed research. The LOA requires copies of these communications before the research can proceed.
Any procedures or restrictions placed on the research by First Nations groups will be adhered to.
How long does the approval process take?
Requests for permission to research will be reviewed by the LOA committee at its next monthly meeting (September to May).
Is there material that will not be considered for research?
Human remains, and materials found in association with those remains, will only be available for research with permission from all relevant First Nations groups.
What information should accompany the initial request for permission to research?
The research request should include the following:
- contact information for correspondence
- name of institution
- purpose of the research
- specific list of site numbers and material requested (artifacts, documentation, photographs). Visiting researchers must determine as precisely as possible the materials to be examined.
- how the material will be used in the research (e.g. measured, photographed, drawn)
- dates requested for access to the collections
How will requestor know if the request is approved?
When a request is approved, the Archaeology Curatorial Research Assistant will send a letter or email message stating approval is given and any conditions placed by the First Nations,and confirming the material approved. After the letter is sent, an Agreement will be drawn up for the material that will indicate the responsibilities of the researcher.
Who should receive copies of the research report?
LOA requests that one copy of any written report or publication resulting from the study or analysis of materials in the Laboratory of Archaeology be deposited on file with the Curatorial Assistant for inclusion in the Archeaology Reading Room. First Nations generally also request one copy of the report or publication which should be sent to them by the researcher.
How much notice should the researcher give LOA of visits to conduct approved research?
Once First Nations have been notified and permisson to research has been given by the LOA committee, LOA requests a minimum of one week's prior notification of a planned visit to ensure that a knowledgeable individual will be available to assist the visitor. Please notify the Archaeology Curatorial Research Assistant in order to arrange a visit.