An archaeologist enters data into a handheld device.

Archaeology is the study of humanity itself, and unless that attitude is kept in mind, archaeology will be overwhelmed by impossible theories or a welter of flint chips.

— Margaret Murray
British anthropologist and Egyptologist

Your Department, CSU, Chico

Archaeology Lab


The Archaeology Lab is the hub of all activity for the Archaeological Research Program. Artifacts and samples recovered from the field are brought to the lab for cleaning, sorting, cataloging, analyzing, and preparation for long-term storage. About 2,000 square feet of laboratory and work space is dedicated to these tasks alone. Each semester, university courses are held in the lab, making it a center for both research and academic learning. For more information please visit