Office of Archaeological Studies

Fact Sheet

About the New Mexico Office of Archaeological Studies:   http://www.nmarchaeology.org/ 

The New Mexico Office of Archaeological Studies is a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs, under the leadership of the Board of Regents for the Museum of New Mexico. Programs and exhibits are generously supported by the Museum of New Mexico Foundation, through the generous support of donors.

The Office of Archaeological Studies (OAS) conducts archaeological research projects throughout New Mexico with a diverse group of 25-40 archaeologists and support staff. OAS’s mission is to identify, interpret and share information about prehistoric and historic sites across the state. The officer serves state agencies and private organizations that need archaeological studies performed as part of their development projects. OAS provides ethnographic and historic research services, with an education outreach program that interacts with New Mexicans to answer questions about archaeology, history and the heritage of New Mexico. OAS has twice received the Society for American Archaeology’s Excellence in Public Education Award (2005 & 2012). In addition to client-initiated projects, OAS conducts research projects funded by grants and private donations. Many projects use a dedicated corps of volunteers. The office provides training for university students and makes use of their skills in the latest technology. OAS collaborates with Mexico’s national archaeological program and holds educational outreach programs in surrounding states.

OAS has five specialized laboratories, a small library and publication department, with nationally recognized experts in pottery, botany, osteology, and OAS’s archaeomagnetic dating laboratory, one of two full-time labs in the United States dedicated to this dating technique.

7 Old Cochiti Road (off 599) Santa Fe, NM 87507 (505) 476-4404. Fax: (505) 476-4448

http://nmarchaeology.org