Research at HCA

Our diverse and energetic research culture covers many periods, areas, themes and approaches that unite the subjects of Archaeology, Classics and History.

Research at HCA has long been internationally recognised for its exceptionally broad and interdisciplinary scope that encompasses the past from prehistory to the contemporary world, across multiple geographical regions, and using diverse methodologies. Our community is large and welcoming. Our many active research centres and groups make the school a thriving hub for intellectual exchange in the university and beyond. We run frequent research seminars and events open to the public.

Our position as a global leader in research has been recognised by grants from numerous funding bodies including the European Research Council, the AHRC, the Leverhulme Trust, and the Royal Society. Colleagues lead our fields through service in national and international bodies (such as the British Academy, Royal Society of Edinburgh, Classical Association, Royal Historical Society, Royal Archaeological Institute, and through media and consultancy. 

As well as disciplinary-specific research in History, Classics and Archaeology, there are key areas of shared interest between our three disciplines, including: 

Cultural Heritage and Public History

A key research theme is understanding how historical narratives, material heritage and cultural memory influence power, identity and public life in the present. Our research in this area is typically shaped through collaboration. Working with museums, cultural bodies and communities, colleagues co-produce research that explores how the past is interpreted, represented and debated. 

Institutions, power and social order 

Many of our researchers ask how institutions and systems of authority are created, negotiated and contested. From ancient civic structures and legal cultures to religious institutions, imperial governance and modern state formation, this work brings together historians, classicists and archaeologists around shared questions of power, legitimacy and social organisation.

Material and lived experience of the past

Stories of the past do not have to rely on text. Many of our scholars focus on material culture, landscapes, bodies and environments. Archaeological and historical research, analysis and experimentation combine interpretative, scientific and bioarchaeological methods to explore everyday life, health, mobility and belief. 

Global and post-colonial pasts 

We have a significant body of scholars who address empire and its legacies, engage with decolonisation, transnational connections and comparative perspectives, situating local and national histories within wider global frameworks.  

 

For more information about individual outputs by the school, see the Edinburgh Research Explorer.

This article was published on