The Science Museum has launched a new Research and Public History Department to coordinate the museum's academic research activities.

The department will be tasked with running the museum's research projects; liaise with university departments and other museums; co-supervise students; support research fellows and associates; publish papers and books; and organise public events, conferences and workshops.

Dr. Tim Boon, head of research and public history at the Science Museum, said: "In research terms, the Science Museum's collections are almost pure potential, so little in-depth research has ever been undertaken.

"A museum that does not prioritise research cannot understand the stories its collections tell; how its audiences engage; nor how to slow the deterioration of its objects. Research is the elixir that releases the potential of museums."

For further information on the department and its current projects, click here.