Inside the Collections Care Team: Introducing the New Assistant at the National Science and Media Museum

Introducing the new Collections Care Assistant

Ben joined the Conservation and Collections Care team at the National Science and Media Museum in November 2025 as a Collections Care Assistant, bringing a background in museum work and a History of Art degree from the University of York.

Background and career path

Prior to this appointment, Ben worked as a Visitor Experience Assistant from February 2025, developing a firm appreciation for museum objects and the stories they tell. The transition to collections care deepened involvement with object conservation, storage management, and the logistical work that keeps exhibits visible and safe.

Key responsibilities at a glance

The role focuses on practical and preventive care: monitoring gallery conditions, cleaning on-display objects, assisting with risk assessments during building works, and maintaining meticulous records. Tasks regularly include cataloguing details in the collections management system and coordinating with conservators and external suppliers.

Weekly routine and special tasks

Training, tools and techniques

New staff complete comprehensive, object-focused training that covers object handling, the use of the collections management system (Mimsy), and how to recognise and manage object hazards. Practical skills are equally important: measuring store space, liaising with racking suppliers, and preparing documents that support safe storage and movement.

Equipment and methods

• Backpack vacuum and long duster for delicate surface cleaning
• Collections management software (Mimsy) for accurate records
• Excel-based pest management and inventory spreadsheets
• Risk assessments and health-and-safety documentation for building projects

Collaboration and museum logistics

Daily duties often require coordination across departments: conservators check galleries together before public opening, suppliers deliver racking for stores, and teams plan moves ahead of building works. Such collaboration ensures that both staff and objects are safe and that collections remain accessible to the public.

Transport and transfer considerations

Moving objects, staff exchanges between sites, and visiting conservators all depend on reliable transfers. Whether transporting delicate artifacts or arranging convenient staff travel from the airport or city centre, precise timing and the right vehicle matter. Selecting appropriate transport is as crucial as the packing itself—factors like vehicle type, driver expertise, and secure handling protocols help mitigate risk.

Why transport choices matter for collections care

• Correct vehicle reduces vibration and exposure during transfer
• Experienced drivers familiar with handling fragile loads ensure safe delivery
• Transparent booking details allow accurate planning—knowing the exact make, model and ratings of a vehicle helps match the service to the item

What this means for visitors and professionals

For visitors, effective collections care means better-preserved exhibits and smoother gallery experiences. For museum professionals, the job blends hands-on conservation with logistics and data management, offering variety day to day and opportunities for inter-museum collaboration.

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