About IfA

The Institute for Archaeologists is a professional organisation for all archaeologists and others involved in protecting and understanding the historic environment. It is a democratic organisation, run by an elected Council, and supported by committees responsible for all areas of the Institute’s work.

The Institute has a number of functions. It represents the interests of archaeology and archaeologists to government, policy makers and industry, sets standards and issues guidelines, works to improve pay and conditions, improves member career prospects by promoting and organising training and informing them of developments in professional practice, provides a wide range of membership services, and through its Registered Organisations scheme improves employment practices and raises standards of work.

Over 3100 people have so far joined IfA, and more than 70 organisations have registered. Membership is open to anybody who works within the historic environment, whether they are employed or volunteering their time. Individuals gain membership after rigorous peer review of their technical and ethical competence. Corporate members can use the appropriate post-nominal letters: PIfA, AIfA or MIfA. We also have two non-corporate grades: Student and Affiliate. All members agree to abide by the Code of conduct (pdf file), for all archaeologists have a duty to adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards. The following brochure showcases some of our members, and the roles they have.

• Download IfA Brochure (pdf file)

In October of each year the IfA holds an AGM. Reports from our Hon Chair, Treasurer and Groups are all produced and presented in our Annual Report, which is accepted at AGM. Recent Annual Reports can be found below.

• Download the 2010 Annual Report
• Download the 2011 Annual Report
• Download the 2012 Annual Report

All the papers relating to our next AGM will be made available to members from the 10 September at www.archaeologists.net/agm2012.