Radiocarbon Dating and Bayesian Analysis
Historic Environment ScotlandEstimated Value
Not specified
Deadline
8 July 2026
Published
8 June 2026
Type
services
Overview
The contract is for radiocarbon dating and Bayesian analysis of an estimated 150 to 300 archaeological and related palaeoenvironmental samples per year. Please see Document 2 - Specification for full requirements
AI Analysis
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This is a contract to provide radiocarbon dating services and statistical analysis (Bayesian modelling) for archaeological and environmental samples. A government body needs to test approximately 150–300 samples annually to determine their age and understand historical environmental conditions.
Requirements
- Ability to perform radiocarbon (radioactive carbon-14) dating on archaeological samples
- Capability to conduct Bayesian statistical analysis on dating results
- Experience with palaeoenvironmental (ancient environmental) sample analysis
- Appropriate laboratory facilities and accreditation for radioactive material handling
- Quality assurance and calibration procedures for dating accuracy
- Capacity to process 150–300 samples per year
- Turnaround times and reporting standards not specified in this notice — check Document 2 (Specification)
Key Tasks & Deliverables
- Radiocarbon date 150–300 archaeological samples annually using laboratory analysis
- Perform Bayesian statistical modelling to refine age estimates from radiocarbon results
- Analyse and report on palaeoenvironmental samples (e.g. pollen, soil, plant remains) to reconstruct ancient conditions
- Deliver calibrated age data and uncertainty ranges for each sample
- Provide written reports and data suitable for archaeological interpretation
How to Read This Tender
- 1This is a specialist, scientific contract — if you don't have laboratory radiocarbon equipment or expertise, this isn't for you unless you're partnering with a university or research institute.
- 2The notice gives only a headline brief; Document 2 (Specification) will contain the detail: sample types accepted, required turnaround times, reporting format, quality standards, and number of samples guaranteed vs. variable.
- 3Watch for whether the contract specifies 'ISO accreditation' (e.g. ISO 17025) — this is a common requirement for analytical labs and can take time and cost to obtain.
- 4Check if Bayesian analysis is a separate skill you must provide or if the buyer will do it themselves — this changes the scope of work and price.
- 5Annual volume is 150–300 samples; confirm whether this is guaranteed or estimated, and what happens if fewer samples are submitted.
Tips for Small Businesses
- If you're a small lab without full radiocarbon capacity, consider partnering with a larger accredited laboratory (e.g. a university radiocarbon unit) as a subcontractor — many labs are happy to use vetted small-business partners for sample preparation, reporting, or statistical work.
- Bayesian analysis is a technical strength that differentiates you — if you have statisticians on staff or can partner with a specialist, highlight this capability, as it adds value over basic radiocarbon dating.
- Ask the buyer (during clarification questions) whether they prefer a fixed annual fee for 150–300 samples or a per-sample rate — this affects your pricing model and risk.
Likely incumbents
Suppliers who won similar work from this buyer in the last 5 years.
- 1
MSDS Marine and MSDS Heritage
1 contract wonlatest 27 Jul 2026
MSDS Marine and MSDS Heritage is the most likely incumbent based on recency and category match. To win, bidders typically need a clearly differentiated proposition or a price advantage.
Before you bid, buyers check
two years of filed accountsyour financial standingturnover vs contract valueyour Companies House recordcash flow for 30-day termscredit scores and ratios
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Buyer Profile
Historic Environment ScotlandKey Dates
Published
8 June 2026
Submission deadline
8 July 2026
Notice type
tender
Source
find a tender
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