To date, the RICHeS programme has invested in 13 Host Collections, 17 Host Facilities and the Heritage Data Science Service forming a robust distributed infrastructure that is strategically positioned across all four nations of the UK. This network is designed to foster collaboration, innovation and access to cutting-edge resources and expertise.
Reflecting on our first year
This October, as we mark the programme’s first year, we will be taking a closer look at the wide range of activities, achievements and milestones delivered by our host collections and facilities. From pioneering research initiatives to the development of state-of-the-art spaces and technologies, the first year has been about building capacity, connecting expertise and laying the foundations for a truly transformative heritage science infrastructure.
Ahead of the investments officially launching in 2026, the project teams have been hard at work procuring state-of-the-art equipment, expanding or creating new spaces, decanting and recanting collections and recruiting new staff members to support access. These efforts are helping enhance access and drive a generational step-change in sector effectiveness, efficiency and excellence.
Access opportunities
If you are interested in engaging with the RICHeS distributed infrastructure, the RICHeS Access Fund offers opportunities to collaborate. The first step is to is to explore the services available across our distributed infrastructure via the Heritage Science Data Service’s new Catalogue of Services. Unlike a single central facility, RICHeS allows you to tap into expertise, collections and facilities across institutions throughout the UK.
The breadth of the 31 investments reflects the interdisciplinary nature of heritage science, supporting research across archaeology, fine art, built heritage and beyond. This breadth of expertise ensures that RICHeS is well-positioned to support research, innovation, and conservation at the highest level.
Securing investment and leveraging impact
During its first year, the 31 investments have successfully secured £1.92 million in leveraged funding, with AHRC investment strengthened by strategic contributions from host institutions. The Heritage Science Data Service team has also built on its RICHeS grant through the European Commission-funded ARTEMIS project, using a Digital Twin approach to advance research, conservation and the safeguarding of cultural heritage.
By leveraging additional investment, RICHeS is building on strong foundations, and we look forward to celebrating further exciting developments as the distributed infrastructure continues to grow.