Heritage Science Data Service - early career focus group

Are you an early career heritage scientist, or a trainee or research student in a related discipline? We'd love to hear from you.

We have received an overwhelming level of interest in these focus groups and have now closed expressions of interest.

The National Heritage Science Forum is running two online focus group sessions to understand how emerging researchers and professionals in the UK would use the new Heritage Science Data Service (HSDS). This is a genuine opportunity to shape how the platform develops – your insights will directly influence the services, training resources, and support that HSDS provides.

As a thank you, we're offering £100 (or voucher equivalent) for participating in both sessions, paid following completion of Session 2 (UK-based participants).

What's involved?

Two online sessions (via Zoom or Teams), each up to 3 hours with a break:

  • Session 1: Awareness and Expectations – what do you know about HSDS, and what would you need from it?
  • Session 2: Use and Experience – exploring how you might use HSDS for data discovery, analysis, and deposition

Sessions will run in March 2026, from 14:00-16.30 on Wed 11 March & Wed 25 March.

Who are we looking for?

We're seeking participants from varied heritage science disciplines, including PhD and Masters researchers, early career professionals, and trainees working in conservation, archaeological science, materials analysis, heritage management, or related fields. No prior knowledge of HSDS is required.

We have received an overwhelming level of interest in these sessions - thank you everyone for your enthusiasm!

We are now reviewing the expessions of interest to ensure we bring together a diverse group of participants from across disciplines, sectors, and career stages. We'll be in touch by Thursday 5th April to confirm participants and share next steps.

If you don't hear from us with a confirmed invitation, please know that this reflects the high volume of interest. Please stay in touch with us by signing up to the NHSF newsletter or following us on LinkedIn. There will be further opportunities to contribute to HSDS user needs research, including our Year 2 survey later this spring.