Lora Angelova, Ph.D.
Senior Research Scientist
Lora Angelova completed a PhD in chemistry at Georgetown University in collaboration with the National Gallery of Art, Washing D.C., where she focused on the development of soft matter systems for the surface cleaning of fine art. With this foundation in physical organic chemistry and polymer science, she continued her research as a Newton International Fellow at the University of Cambridge, UK. Lora also spent a year as a Newton Fellow in the Department of History of Art, University College London, where she taught the course Science for Art Historians. In 2016, Lora joined Tate as a conservation science researcher on the Nanorestart project, continuing her work into the development of gel cleaning systems for modern and contemporary art. At Tate, she gained invaluable experience in the analysis of modern artist materials.
After her post-doctoral research, Lora worked as a Conservation Scientist at The National Archives, UK. At the Archives, Lora quickly transitioned to Head of Conservation Research, leading a team of researchers and overseeing the laboratory and conservation and heritage science research projects across the Collection Care department. Lora served as a board member on the UK’s National Heritage Science Forum and an advisor for the development of the UK’s Research Infrastructure for Conservation and Heritage Science (RICHeS). As a Clore Emerging Leader, she enjoys working closely with colleagues to effectively draft and deliver a strategic vision – be it for a project, a department or a national infrastructure. In 2023, Lora moved to Berlin, Germany, where she works as an independent heritage science researcher and consultant.
Lora’s publication record demonstrates the breadth of her research interests and experience gained in academic, museum, and archive environments. She has also taught a number of courses and workshops, focusing in particular on Gel Cleaning for Conservators and Introductory Heritage Science courses.