

The Life Scientific - Rosalie David
31 snips Mar 17, 2025
Rosalie David, a trailblazer in Egyptology and the UK's first female professor in the field, discusses her groundbreaking research on mummies. She reveals the shocking health issues uncovered in ancient mummies, like that of Asru, showcasing the evolution of mummification techniques. Rosalie shares captivating anecdotes from her travels in 1960s Egypt and highlights the interdisciplinary approach that led to the creation of the world’s first mummy tissue bank, offering new insights into ancient medical practices.
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Early Fascination
- Rosalie David's interest in Egyptology began at age six, sparked by a school lesson about pyramids.
- This early fascination guided her career path.
Museum Volunteer
- Rosalie David's mother encouraged her interest in Egyptology by arranging a volunteer position at a museum.
- David worked in the schools department, repairing and preparing exhibits.
First Trip to Egypt
- In 1964, Rosalie David visited Egypt, exploring sites like the pyramids and Luxor.
- This trip was funded by an anonymous donor and fulfilled her childhood dream.