Swiss Mummy Project
Swiss Mummy Project
The aim of the Swiss Mummy Project (SMP) – a research project based at the
Institute of Evolutionary Medicine (IEM), University of Zurich
– is to investigate ancient human mummies of multiple cultural and
geographical backgrounds with state-of-the-art scientific methods. This
allows gaining insights into the evolution of disease, human variation
but also socio-cultural aspects. The SMP started in the mid-1990’s
with a particular focus on mummies from Swiss collections but has now
become an international collaborative project with involvements eg in
the determination of the cause of death of Pharaoh Tutankhamun; The Neolithic Iceman (“Oetzi”) or a roman-greek mummy.
The main aim is to combine various
scientific perspectives as part of such transdisciplinary research
projects. Furthermore, experimental studies are undertaken to learn more
about the process of natural and artificial mummification in human
tissue. Methods used by members of the SMP are most diverse and include
diagnostic radiology, histology, and molecular techniques.
A particular focus is laid on using sustainable, ethical approaches to
work with these precious human remains (Code of ethics).
The SMP also organised the public mummy exhibition „Mummies: Men, Medicine, Magic“ at
the University of Zurich-Irchel in 2011/12. The work of the Swiss Mummy
Project has been covered in the media (TV, Radio, printed press). The
research has been presented at multiple conferences worldwide and is
part of scientific publications
in specialised journals. The Swiss Mummy project is primarily funded
by generous third-party funding (grants, donations). Basic
support is thankfully provided by the University of Zurich. For details
see List of Funding Partners.
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