Paola Ricciardi

"As a logical, self-motivated and inventive person, I fit well in the world of research. Being self-motivated is really important when undertaking research because you often face setbacks, and it is how you pick yourself up from these which will eventually lead you to discover the answers you are looking for. In order to find these answers, I need to be inventive and curious, which shows how my job complements my personality types of ‘Explorer’ and ‘Investigator’."

"As a Research Scientist, I undertake scientific analysis on works of art and archaeological objects. By doing this I can help to answer questions about their history, manufacturing technology, authorship, date, historical and art-historical context. In addition to this, I produce research outputs such as papers and lecturers, and contributes to the exhibition and outreach activities of the Museum. "

"When I was young, my dream was to be an archaeologist. However, I thought learning Ancient Greek might be too hard. Instead, I did a Master’s degree in Physics before completing a PhD.After my PhD, I went out to the United States to take up a three-year post-doc position. It was after this that I was hired by the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge to set up an analytical lab for a new project. I worked on the same project for 5 years, which resulted in a successful exhibition, publication and conference. As a result of my work the Museum kept me on to be involved in more projects. "

"In my spare time I enjoy reading, watching movies and spending time with my husband and son. I would like to stay in Cambridge in the future as I believe it is a great city for her family. As part of my job, I get to travel to some amazing places which are often inaccessible to the general public. I have been able to see and work on some of the most beautiful and special objects ever made by man, including a painting by Leonardo da Vinci – wow! I have always been fascinated by women scientists including Marie Curie and Margherita Hack, who have both been inspirations to me. "

"A typical day involves spending time in the lab using a range of scientific analytical techniques to analyse objects. Before and after analysis, I will have a discussion with a range of colleagues such as art historians and conservators to discuss ideas and results. "

"Undergraduate Degree in Physics. Master's Degree and PhD in Science for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage"