Collections Manager
B.A.(honors), University of Melbourne
A blog on the Historical Scientific Collections at Yale
shae.trewin@yale.edu
Division of Historical Scientific Instruments
Originally from Australia, I was appointed Collections
Manager in September 2004 after working as a volunteer in the Division
for 18 months.
Currently I am cleaning 19th and 20th century physics
demonstration apparatus, including a large variety of galvanometers.
These instruments were formally housed in Yale’s Physics Department.
Accessioning newly acquired and donated instruments is also a current
project, along with locating and documenting other instruments at Yale.
Researching the collection and individual pieces is also an ongoing
priority.
Academic Interests
- The impact of scientific theory on museum exhibition design and public demonstrations of scientific phenomena.
- Darwin’s theory of evolution, the “missing link” and the popularity of freak shows in the 1800s.
- Science education, exhibition design and the role of instruments as a teaching tool.
- Conservation techniques for scientific instruments.
- International law and treaties regarding cultural heritage preservation and the exportation of cultural artifacts.
Education
2003–Present
Master of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies, Deakin University, Australia
1999–2002
Bachelor of Arts (honors), The University of Melbourne
Double major in Psychology and History and Philosophy of Science
Thesis: Medieval Interpretations of Aristotle’s De anima and Discussions on the Immortal Soul.
