Independent Research Access Request
As stewards of many of North Carolina's archaeological collections, the North Carolina Office of State Archaeology (OSA) preserves artifacts curated at the Research Center (OSARC) and maintains the site files, archaeological reports, and maps that exist as paper and digital records for the over 50,000 archaeological sites recorded across the state. We strive to ensure the availability of these archaeological collections for researchers and the public.
Any individual wishing to conduct research using the archaeological collections maintained by the OSA, including artifacts and/or associated records, must complete the “Research Request” form and submit a proposal for research to the State Archaeologist. Pursuant to state statutes (G.S. 70-18; G.S. 132-2,G.S. 132-9), the State Archaeologist has the right to permit or deny access to the archaeological collections.
All researchers must sign a statement of Ethics and Confidentiality agreeing to treat all protected information made available through the OSA as confidential. Any behavior deemed unethical or inappropriate will result in reversal of research access. Approved researchers shall provide the OSA with a copy of the completed project (e.g., thesis or dissertation, article, poster, etc.,).
If accessing collections at OSARC, researchers will also be required to sign a liability waiver and complete laboratory safety training to be granted access to the facility. Artifacts must be examined at the OSARC facility unless written permission is granted by the State Archaeologist for off-site study. Researchers with intent of destructive analysis must provide a detailed justification for the destruction and what it will contribute to the archaeological understanding of North Carolina culture and history.
Collections housed at the Office of State Archaeology Research Center (OSARC) will not be permitted to be removed from OSARC unless written permission is granted by the State Archaeologist. Personal handling of artifacts and records associated with the OSARC collections is prohibited without specific authorization and supervision by the OSARC staff. Photography is strictly prohibited without prior written permission. No documents, including site forms, site files, and reports, shall be removed from the OSA premises by individuals conducting research.
Please direct any questions to osa.curation@dncr.nc.gov.