Caitlin O’Grady

Caitlin O’Grady is an Assistant Professor at the Anthropology Department and the UCLA/Getty Program in the Conservation of Cultural Heritage. She holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering – Heritage Conservation Science from the University of Arizona, with a dissertation on conservation science approaches to cultural material analysis. Her academic journey also includes an M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering, an M.A. in Art History, an Advanced Certificate in Objects Conservation, and a B.A. in Art History with minors in Chemistry and Economics.

O’Grady’s research focuses on archaeological materials conservation, nondestructive analytical technologies, and technical reconstructions of manufacturing and deterioration processes. Her work bridges materials science and art history, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration to enhance preservation strategies and historical understanding. Key themes include the evolution of conservation practices, ethical decision-making in conservation, and the role of institutions in shaping archaeological knowledge.

• 2024: Research at the British Museum
• 2023: Expertise and identity in archaeology
• 2023: Sustainable past preservation
• 2023: Legitimizing conservation practices
• 2022: Pandemic-era remote teaching in ceramics

Her awards and contributions highlight her role in advancing conservation methodologies and institutional collaboration. O’Grady’s work continues to influence how cultural heritage is preserved and studied globally.