National Science and Media Museum to reopen in January 2025

The iconic venue has been undergoing major works for the £6 million ‘Sound and Vision’ project since June 2023.

It was set to take a year and be back open this summer before that was pushed to next year this past April.

The project includes two new permanent galleries, a passenger lift, and improvements to the main entrance.

It means the next few months are set to be exceptionally busy and exciting for director of the museum Jo Quinton-Tulloch.

Jo Quinton-Tulloch (Image: KM Images Ltd) Since starting at the museum in 2013, her focus has been to forge partnerships across the city, including the University of Bradford, making it a centre of excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning.

She has now seen her dedication to Bradford recognised after being named as an Honorary Doctor of the University, given ‘In recognition of demonstrating significant impact on the City and beyond, and contribution to STEM in partnership with the University.’

Jo led a relaunch of the renamed and rebranded National Science and Media Museum in spring 2017 (Image: KM Images Ltd) Jo, 57, said: “We’re pretty busy at the moment and all for a good reason. 

“The museum is a key venue right in the heart of the city centre and its cultural quarter, alongside the Alhambra and Bradford Live. And of course, there are plenty of other venues across the city and district - all of which will play key roles during 2025.

“We have a national remit, but we are proudly located in Bradford and working to be a museum that is strongly embedded in its place.

"The work of the museum can make a difference in people’s lives; we can raise people’s aspirations and provide inspiration; give them opportunities that they won’t get anywhere else.

“We are working to raise the profile of STEM across the city and the Bradford district, clearly signalling our commitment to engaging the next generation of engineers and creatives in science and technology.”

Jo has now seen her dedication to Bradford recognised after being named as an Honorary Doctor of the University (Image: KM Images Ltd) Speaking on her University of Bradford honorary doctorate, Jo added: “It is a real honour and a big surprise. For me, it also feels part of the recognition of the journey that we have been on at the museum.

“I work with amazing people. They are the people creating the inspiring experiences. It’s a huge team effort.

“Bradford is my home now. I am really proud of having been welcomed and been part of the journey that Bradford is on. There is real momentum for the Bradford district.”