Charis Theodorakopoulos

Charis Theodorakopoulos is an Assistant Professor at Northumbria University within the Design Arts and Creative Industries school. Specializing in materials science and conservation, their research focuses on cultural heritage preservation, analytical chemistry, and laser technology applications. They hold a DPhil in Art awarded in 2005.

Research interests include FTIR spectroscopy, laser-induced material modification, and degradation mechanisms of historical materials like parchment, varnishes, and plaster. Key projects involve developing non-invasive assessment methods for cultural artifacts and creating innovative cleaning systems using gels and polymers.

Recent work emphasizes accelerated aging studies of parchment under environmental stressors and laser cleaning efficacy for artworks. Their interdisciplinary approach bridges chemistry, engineering, and art history, with collaborations spanning museums and heritage institutions.

Funded projects include £649k Ed Teppo research (2016-2021) and £37k XpeCAM evaluations. Consultancies include work with XpectralTEK LDA (2017) and Woon Brothers Foundation (2017). Supervised two doctoral projects and contributed to Northumbria's conservation research archives.

Labs and teams: Involved in heritage material characterization labs, laser cleaning applications, and polymer-based conservation systems development. Active in international conferences and heritage preservation networks.