Revealing the Past, Shaping the Future: Reflections from the V&A Heritage Science Symposium

By Mariam Amhaz, Founder & Director, Global Path Connections

24 April 2026

Yesterday, I had the profound privilege of attending “Revealing the Past: Analytical Methods in Heritage Science” at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London- a landmark symposium jointly hosted by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), Icon (The Institute of Conservation), and the UKRI/AHRC RICHeS programme.

As Founder and Director of Global Path Connections, I was inspired by a full day dedicated to cutting-edge analytical techniques that are transforming how we understand, protect, and make accessible our shared cultural heritage. The programme brilliantly showcased the power of science- from microscopy and spectroscopy to biomolecular analysis, imaging, and environmental monitoring – all in service of sustainability, risk management, and inclusive access.

What truly stood out was the exceptional calibre of the speakers and the collaborative spirit that defined the day. From Lucia Burgio’s visionary opening and closing remarks (as Lead Conservation Scientist at the V&A and Chair of the RSC/AMC Heritage Science Expert Working Group) to Carla Burrell’s energising presentation on “Empowering heritage science through the RICHeS distributed infrastructure,” the event highlighted how UK institutions are leading the way in innovation and collaboration.

I was equally inspired by the breadth of expertise shared by an outstanding lineup of speakers, including Dave Thickett, Diego Tamburini, Lucy Cramp, Lore Troalen, Alison Hulme, Patrick Gleeson, Oliver Craig, Callum Graham, Margaret Veall, Antonella Scherillo, Francesca Gherardi, Kieron Webb, Irene Bargagli, Marc Vermeulen, Bronwyn Ormsby, Daniel O’Flynn, and many more. Their presentations demonstrated not only technical excellence but also a deep commitment to making heritage science more sustainable, inclusive, and impactful.

A powerful highlight was the strong leadership of women at the forefront of this field. Seeing Lucia Burgio masterfully steer the day, Carla Burrell championing vital infrastructure for the sector, and brilliant contributions from Lucy Cramp, Lore Troalen, Alison Hulme, Margaret Veall, Antonella Scherillo, Francesca Gherardi, Irene Bargagli, and Bronwyn Ormsby was truly empowering. Their presence and expertise sent a clear message: the future of heritage science is diverse, collaborative, and led by remarkable women.

I was honoured to meet both Lucia Burgio and Carla Burrell, exchange ideas, and capture special moments together — reminders of the human connections that turn scientific excellence into real-world progress.

None of this would have been possible without the visionary support of the event’s funders and sponsors: the UKRI/AHRC RICHeS programme, the Royal Society of Chemistry, Icon, the V&A Museum, and the Analytical Methods Trust and Analytical Chemistry Trust Fund. These organisations are making a profound difference – investing in research infrastructure, technical briefs, and knowledge exchange that will shape the next generation of heritage practice across the UK and beyond.

For Global Path Connections, the symposium reinforced a core belief: the most powerful heritage work happens when rigorous scientific analysis meets creative digital strategies, cross-cultural perspectives, and inclusive community engagement. The insights gained yesterday will directly strengthen our mission to advance global cross-cultural heritage and digital strategies.

I left the V&A feeling deeply motivated and optimistic. Events like this remind us that when leading UK institutions, funders, organisers, and experts come together, they don’t just reveal the past – they actively shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and connected future for cultural heritage worldwide.

A heartfelt thank you to Lucia Burgio, Carla Burrell, every speaker, the organising teams at RSC, Icon, and RICHeS, and the generous sponsors who made this day possible. Your work is making a lasting difference.