Research Labs

PaleoImaging and Bioarchaeology Lab (PIBL)

(SSC 3418)

Thin-Sectioning and Microscopy Lab (TSML)

(SSC 3419)

The thin-sectioning and microscopy lab, located in Social Science Centre (SSC) 3419, has equipment and supplies for the preparation and imaging of thin-sections prepared from archaeological materials including ceramics, bones, and teeth. We have an Isomet Low Speed Precision Saw (Beuhler) with 3 to 5 inch diamond blades for sectioning. Mounting of samples is possible with a variety of chucks, dental sticky wax, and hot plate. Materials and equipment for embedding samples in epoxy resin are available for delicate samples. We have countertop Polishing and Grinding Machines and materials for hand grinding and polishing as well as an assortment of glass slides to mount thin-sections of various sizes. Additional equipment includes a handheld Dremel tool, Hillson-Fitzgerald dental callipers, an ultrasonic cleaner, a magnetic stirrer hot plate, and an adjustable desktop illuminated magnifier.

Bioarchaeology Chemistry Lab

The Bioarchaeology Chemistry Lab, located in Social Science Centre (SSC) 9322, has facilities, equipment, and supplies to process archaeological samples for biochemical analyses, including for stable isotopes (e.g., carbon, nitrogen, oxygen) and trace elements. Chemical procedures are performed in the fume hood. Equipment to prepare and process samples include a handheld Dremel tool, a precision balance, an ultrasonic cleaner, a magnetic stirrer hot plate, an adjustable desktop illuminated magnifier, a centrifuge, miscellaneous glassware and vials, and sample collection instruments including 1 and 2mm punches.

We work with the Western Laboratory for Stable Isotope Science (https://www.uwo.ca/earth/LSIS/) for the subsequent analyses (e.g. mass spectrometry) of prepared samples.

ZooArchaeology Lab (ZooArch)

(SSC 3435)

The Digital & Interdisciplinary Archaeology Lab (DIA Lab)

The Digital & Interdisciplinary Archaeology Lab at Western centers several core strengths of the Department of Anthropology at Western: digital archaeology, geophysical survey and mapping, community-based approaches, and interdisciplinary research. 

Located in Social Science Centre Room 3430, the lab offers a meeting and workspace for students, as well as resources for projects that combine archaeology, anthropology, digital humanities, geography, and other fields to explore issues related to heritage and the built landscape, past and present. As a community, we share and workshop ideas and methods, share resources, collaborate on projects, and mobilize research at conferences and in community. 

Resources include:

• 3D printing station and software
• Small equipment library (e.g., H4N digital recorder, Canon EOS cameras, document scanners, field iPads)
• Small drones for photogrammetry and survey
• Computer stations with photogrammetry, GIS, geophysical, and photo editing software
• Historic material teaching collections

Learn about lab hours, hands-on learning opportunities, updates, and research on our Hub Site.