Thackray Museum of Medicine Insights Lecture Series: Dr Katherine Rawling

Join Dr Katherine Rawling from the School of History as she presents 'Left for Dead' at the Thackray Museum of Medicine together with Dr Richard Bellis and Cat Irving.

This lecture is part of the Thackray Museum of Medicine Insights Lecture Series 2024/25. 

To understand the causes of life, we must first have recourse to death

Human remains have for centuries been key to the way we have understood our own anatomy. Used for dissection and research in disease, they are often housed in museum collections the world over. Remains also have the power to tell us about the person they once were and unpack the stories of the world in which they lived.

Join a panel of experts for a lively discussion surrounding the history of human remains, how they have broadened our medical and historical understanding, and the ethical arguments surrounding their collection and display.

Dr Katherine Rawling is a historian of medicine and visual culture, and a Lecturer in 19^th century British History in the School of History.

Dr Richard Bellis is Associate Lecturer in Medical Humanities at the University of St Andrews. His Research focuses on the history of human remains in medical research.

Cat Irving has been caring for anatomical and pathological museum collections for over 20 years and is currently the Human Remains Conservator for Surgeons’ Hall.

Location

This lecture will take place at the Thackray Museum of Medicine, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7LN.

Booking details

This is a ticketed event. Book your ticket and find out more about the series on the museum’s website.