Jessica Bradford, the Science Museum’s current Keeper of Collections Engagement, has been appointed to the role of Head of Collections and Principal Curator.
Beginning the role in November, she replaces Dr Blyth, who has served at the museum for two decades.
With eleven years at the Science Museum Group, Bradford has previously worked across Collections, Learning and Exhibitions. In the newest role, Bradford will continue to lead the Group’s pioneering Curators of Tomorrow scheme which will welcome three new curatorial trainees recruited using positive action. The new role includes ongoing strategic input as a member of the One Collection Board.
In addition to roles at the Science Museum, Bradford was co-Head of Public Engagement and Programmes at the History of Science Museum at the University of Oxford in 2021 and Lead Curator of TEDxLondon between 2015 and 2017. She has a degree in Modern History and an MSc in the History of Science, Technology and Medicine.
Science Museum Deputy Director, Dr Julia Knights said Bradford “brings a compelling and inclusive vision to this role centred around audiences, understanding what resonates with visitors and looking critically at how we need to evolve our practice to connect with people who aren’t yet drawn to our spaces.”
Bradford said of her appointment: “The opportunity to lead our talented curatorial team as we share the astonishing stories embedded in our collection is a life’s dream realised. I can’t wait to get started.”
