AURORA represents a transformative expansion of the University of Alaska’s research capabilities in paleontology, archaeology, environmental science and related disciplines. Building on decades of campus-wide expertise in the collection, preservation, preparation and analytical interpretation of samples, AURORA now brings state-of-the-art radiocarbon measurement to our institution for the first time. This integration of long-standing scientific experience with cutting‑edge instrumentation creates a powerful hub for high‑precision chronological research.
World-Class Instrumentation
The laboratory is anchored by an Ionplus MICADAS accelerator mass spectrometer, a compact, high‑performance AMS system designed for rapid, precise, and efficient measurement of radiocarbon in a wide range of materials. Supporting systems expand the lab’s analytical versatility and throughput:
- Ionplus Automated Graphitization Equipment (AGE‑3) for high‑purity graphite production from CO₂.
- Ionplus Gas Interface System (GIS) enabling direct measurement of CO₂ gas samples without graphitization.
- Ionplus Carbonate Handling System (CHS‑2) for automated hydrolysis and CO₂ extraction from carbonates and dissolved inorganic carbon.
- Elementar Vario Isotope Cube Elemental Analyzer for quantitative combustion of organic materials and production of clean CO₂ for radiocarbon or stable isotope analysis.
- Elementar Isoprime PrecisION Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer for accurate and precise measurements of the stable isotopes of carbon, nitrogen and sulfur.
Together, these instruments allow the laboratory to process and analyze samples with exceptional precision, low backgrounds, and high efficiency, supporting both routine measurements and complex research applications.
Deep Expertise, Now Paired with In-State Measurement
For many years, researchers across the University have prepared a wide variety of archaeological, paleontological, geological and environmental samples for radiocarbon dating. This collective experience spanning excavation, conservation, chemical pretreatment, collagen extraction, cellulose purification, carbonate cleaning, and more, has long been one of the institution’s strengths.
Until now, however, radiocarbon measurement itself required sending samples to external laboratories. The establishment of AURORA fundamentally changes what is possible. Our existing expertise in sample preparation now pairs seamlessly with in‑house measurement, enabling:
- Lower prices
- Shorter turnaround times
- Greater control over sample handling
- Enhanced methodological development
- New interdisciplinary collaborations
- Expanded opportunities for undergraduate and graduate education
This convergence of experience and instrumentation positions the University of Alaska as a regional leader in radiocarbon science.
Comprehensive Sample Preparation Services
AURORA provides full sample preparation and CO₂ production services for a wide range of materials, including but not limited to:
- Bones, teeth, antlers, tusks and other collagen-containing materials
- Horns, hoofs, hair, fur, feathers and other keratin-containing materials
- Wood, charcoal, and other plant-derived materials
- Shells, corals, speleothems, foraminifera and other carbonate-containing materials
- Dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in water
- Organic matter in sediments and soils
- Textiles, parchments, insects, and many other sample types
With both graphite and gas‑source AMS capabilities, the lab can accommodate samples of varying size, preservation state, and carbon content from microgram‑level CO₂ aliquots to large, well-preserved organic materials. For highly-detailed information regarding the procedures and protocols used for each sample type, please visit the Sample Information and Protocols page.
A New Era of Research Capability
The launch of the Radiocarbon Dating Laboratory marks a major milestone for the University. By combining world‑class instrumentation with decades of hands‑on expertise, the facility dramatically expands the scope, speed, and ambition of research possible on campus. Whether reconstructing past environments, dating archaeological sites, studying megafaunal extinctions, or developing new analytical methods, the lab provides the precision and flexibility needed to support cutting‑edge scientific discovery.
Additional Resources for Alaskans
Research and Method Development Opportunities
We welcome the opportunity to work closely with University of Alaska researchers and Alaska-based collaborators.
- Collaborative method testing for new sample types
- Optimization of existing protocols to accommodate new or challenging (e.g. degraded) sample types.
- Optimization of existing protocols to accommodate large research projects
Education and Training Opportunities
- Hands-on training for undergraduate and graduate students
- Integration with paleontology, archaeology, geoscience and environmental science curricula
- Student-led research projects using AMS technology
Campus Community Support
- Discounted sample preparation and measurement services for internal researchers
- Consultation available on sampling strategies, sample preparation options, measurement options and data interpretation
- Support for regional institutions, museums and collaborators
AURORA’s radiocarbon laboratory designation code is AUR.
If you have additional questions. please take a look at the Frequently Asked Questions page and if that still doesn’t cover it for you, then please contact us.