Lidija Mcknight

Lidija Mcknight is a Doctoral graduate in Egyptology from the University of Manchester and holds an MSc in Biomedical and Forensic Studies in Egyptology. She serves as an Honorary Research Fellow in the Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine at the University of Manchester and as Honorary Curator of Archaeo-Zoology at Manchester Museum. Her work spans non-invasive radiographic analysis of ancient Egyptian mummies, public engagement, and exhibition design.

Education:

• PhD in Egyptology (2009), The University of Manchester
• MSc in Biomedical and Forensic Studies in Egyptology (2001), The University of Manchester
• BSc in Archaeology (2000), University of York

Her research employs X-ray and CT scanning alongside 3D printing to study mummified animals and humans, revealing insights into ancient Egyptian religious practices, mummification methods, and artifact preservation. She leads the Ancient Egyptian Animal Bio Bank project, collaborating with healthcare providers and museums globally, while also directing the Perth Mummy Project in Scotland.

The trends in her publications focus on advanced imaging technologies, taxonomic identification challenges in fragmented remains, and experimental mummification. Notable projects include the award-winning touring exhibition 'Gifts for the Gods: Animal Mummies Revealed' and interdisciplinary work with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Scientific Awards:

• CityLife 'Exhibition of the Year' Award (2016)
• Eileen Walters Travel Awards (2010, 2011, 2012)
• FLS Career Development Award (2013)

She mentors post-doctoral researchers, assesses Higher Education Academy portfolios, and co-directs academic summer schools. Her funding includes grants from the Leverhulme Trust, Wellcome Trust, and UK Arts and Humanities Research Council.

As Honorary Curator, she improves accessibility to cultural collections and leads exhibition logistics, artifact care, and cross-institutional communication. Her experimental program mummifies modern animal cadavers to validate ancient techniques, maintaining 23 specimens in stable condition.