For my PhD I returned to the university of Bradford, and Gerry McDonnell. I was again fortunate to be funded by the AHRC. My research focused on iron knives from the early medieval period (c. AD 410-1100). Using metallographic examination I investigated manufacturing methods, iron working and heat-treating techniques, alloy use, wear and repair, recycling and placed this information into its early medieval context.
During the PhD I was very independent in the department. So I really enjoyed the many conferences I attended, and often took the opportunity to present my research (both PhD and Masters). I also enjoyed the demonstrating and teaching I undertook, especially for the archaeometallurgy modules.
I have also taken part in outside activities. I joined the Historical Metallurgy Society as an active member and helped catalogue the national slag collection. I have also helped out at a number of conferences, including the World of Iron Conference in London and the HMS Experimental conference at West Dean.
The title of my PhD thesis is ‘The Early Medieval Cutting Edge of Technology: An archaeometallurgical, technological and social study of the manufacture and use of Anglo-Saxon and Viking iron knives, and their contribution to the early medieval iron economy’.