IARC Completes Ten Year Mission

The Illicit Antiquities Research Centre of the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research ceased its activities at the end of September 2007. The McDonald Institute’s mission is to enhance the University of Cambridge’s long-established reputation as a world leader in archaeological research by promoting innovative cutting-edge research through a rolling programme of research fellowships and project funding. In the almost ten years of support that the Institute has provided, the IARC has played a significant role in highlighting the disastrous effects of the illicit antiquities trade on the global archaeological heritage. Its voice has been influential in the development of more robust legislative structures and codes of practice for museums and auction houses in the UK, and of greater ethical awareness internationally. The Institute acknowledges the inspirational leadership of Professor Colin Renfrew, its founding Director, in establishing, directing, and promoting the IARC, and the commitment and flair of the staff of the IARC, Dr Neil Brodie and Dr Jenny Doole. We take particular pride in the public recognition of their achievements, in particular the award of the European Archaeological Heritage Prize in 2004 in recognition of the IARC’s ‘internationally unique’ contribution to European and world heritage protection, and of the Archaeological Institute of America’s Outstanding Public Service Award in 2006. Dr Brodie is moving to a new post in Stanford University, USA, to develop what is certain to be a world-class Masters course in heritage ethics, and Dr Doole is changing career; the Institute wishes them every success for the future. The final issue of the IARC’s influential Newsletter Culture Without Context will soon be available in the “Publications” section of the Institute’s website www.mcdonald.cam.ac.uk

Graeme Barker
Director, McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
October 2007