Get Involved!
Volunteer scientists are critical to the success of this project! The SERC Archaeology Lab is staffed entirely by volunteers and college students. Without them, archaeology research at SERC would be impossible. We encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch with us to find out how to become an archaeology volunteer scientist. Before signing up, however, you probably want to know what you’re getting into:
There are two roles for volunteer scientists
Assistant volunteer scientists:
-Excavate areas scientists think contain artifacts that speak to the lifestyle of the lands inhabitants.
-Sift soil from the units in giant sieves to “pan for artifacts,” such as tobacco pipes, nails, ceramic sherds, and Indian artifacts.
-Trowel the bottom and sides of the units to reveal color and texture patterns that provide evidence of how the land was used.
-Wash and identify recovered artifacts.
-Other miscellaneous tasks
While working, you will enjoy conversation with other volunteers on the project—the lead scientists, college students, and volunteer scientists of all ages and backgrounds. If you enjoy learning new things, meeting new people and being outdoors, this is a great opportunity! Read a blog post about excavation activities at the site here.
Research volunteer scientists:
If you have a strong interest in archaeological science and want to play a more involved role, then being a research volunteer scientist is for you. Research volunteer scientists do many of the same activities as assistant volunteer scientists, but with the help of the lead scientists they also:
-Develop original research questions.
-Create procedures to answer those questions.
-Implement procedures, with support from assistant volunteer scientists.
-Write reports discussing their methods and findings.
Research volunteer scientist positions have stricter eligibility requirements (see below), but the experience can be rewarding because of the opportunity to be part of the research decision-making process. If you think you would like to be a research volunteer scientist but aren’t sure, we encourage you to start out as an assistant volunteer scientist.
Eligibility and time commitment
Assistant volunteer scientists
-Minimum age is 13. Individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
-Minimum time commitment is one 3-hour visit, but repeat visits are common and encouraged.
Research volunteer scientists
-All research volunteer scientist appointments are contingent upon a successful interview with the lead scientist.
-Minimum age is 16. If you are in high school (or any age, for that matter!), only apply if you are motivated and serious about the work.
-Minimum time commitment is 10 hours per month for at least three months. This is a great summer opportunity for focused students with a strong interest in archaeology.
Location and Days/Times:
The archaeology lab and excavation sites are located on the SERC campus in Edgewater, Md.
The lab is active on Wednesdays from 9a.m.-3p.m., but volunteer scientists don’t need to stay the entire day.
To sign up or for more information:
Contact Rachael Mady, SERC Participatory Science Coordinator, at madyr@si.edu