A new research project launching in Spring 2026 will play a vital role in securing the long-term conservation of the Mary Rose by mapping the physical and chemical changes occurring within the ship’s hull.
Running for three and a half years, this project brings together expertise from the University of Portsmouth, the University of Southampton, and the Mary Rose Trust, with generous funding from the Scorpion Trust. It will also support a PhD student jointly based at the two universities, helping to train the next generation of conservation scientists.
By integrating decades of existing data with new research, the team aims to create the most complete time-resolved model of the Mary Rose’s condition to date. This comprehensive understanding will directly inform future long-term conservation strategies, ensuring the ship’s survival for generations to come.
Beyond conservation, the project will develop interactive tools to share fresh insights with the public, enhancing interpretation, engagement, and education around one of the UK’s most significant maritime treasures.
Source: Mary Rose newsletter, January 2026
