Jessica Bradford appointed Director of Collections

She will be key in leading the Museum's collections and acquisitions strategy and ensuring that its collections continue to be a valuable resource for scientists and researchers worldwide.

Natural History Museum Executive Director of Science Dr Tim Littlewood says: “We are thrilled to welcome Jessica to our team. Her remarkable experience in museum leadership and her dedication to making collections accessible will enhance our quest to identify solutions from and for nature.

“Our national treasures, as they stand today and as we continue to acquire in the future, not only reveal nature’s history and present state, they also indicate future trends and identify where and how we take action.”

Jessica brings a wealth of experience in museum leadership, collections management, and audience engagement to this crucial role. Currently Head of Collections and Principal Curator at the Science Museum, she has a proven track record of success in leading teams, delivering ambitious large-scale projects, developing innovative approaches to collections care, and enhancing public access to museum treasures. In addition to several roles at the Science Museum, Jessica was co-Head of Public Engagement and Programmes at the History of Science Museum in Oxford.

At the Science Museum Group, Jessica has provided curatorial direction on many transformational projects, from object-rich galleries to contemporary science exhibitions. Recently she led the engagement strand of the Group’s transformational One Collection programme, which involved relocating over 300,000 objects from London to the Hawking Building at the Science and Innovation Park in Wiltshire. She has a deep understanding of the importance of collections for research, education, and inspiring future generations.

She has championed digital initiatives that make museum objects more accessible and engaging for ever wider audiences. She is now keen to support the delivery of NHM’s ambitious plans for its collections, science, research and galleries.

Trained as a historian of science, medicine and technology, Jessica’s interests in creating advocates for the planet, and helping realise the research potential of the Museum’s collections were prime factors in her applying for the role.

Jessica Bradford says: "I am delighted to be joining the Natural History Museum. This is an extraordinary opportunity to work with world-class collections and contribute to the museum's vital mission. I am passionate about unlocking the potential of these collections for research, education, and public engagement, and I look forward to working with the talented team at the Natural History Museum to achieve this."

Jessica will join the Museum in early March 2025.

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