An Inside Look: cSw Chief Editor Takes the Team on a Trip

Curious Science Writers Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art

On Friday, July 31, 2026, seven members of the Curious Science Writers and Editorial Team in the New York Tri-State area took a tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Science Research Department. The trip was organized by Chief Editor Sharika Dhar, a former intern at the Met Museum. Hosted by Julia Bakker Arkema, Associate Research Scientist at the Met, the tour provided an inside look at how scientific research supports the preservation and study of the museum’s collections.

Curious Science Writers enjoyed getting a behind-the-scenes scientific tour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. From left, Kevin Li, Sharika Dhar, host Julia Bakker-Arkema, Sahasra Maradani, Kaitlyn Feng, Chelsea Eng, Emily Ho, and Ireene Otunnu.

Participants explored research laboratories and conservation spaces, learned about techniques such as imaging and material analysis, and viewed examples of ongoing projects that combine chemistry, physics, biology, and art history. Throughout the tour, Julia explained how scientists work alongside conservators and curators to better understand artworks and uncover their histories, giving attendees a unique perspective on the role of science behind the scenes at one of the world’s leading museums.

About the Author

Sharika Dhar

Sharika Dhar, a senior at the Academy for Allied Health Sciences in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, is ecstatic to serve as the Chief Editor for Curious Science Writers (cSw). She is passionate about bridging her passions for writing, service, and health equity. She is a strong advocate for cultural narratives surrounding health policy and uses her love for journalism to amplify voices. Sharika was a cSw writer last year and is excited to return for her second year to help young writers find their voice and support them on their journeys. Passionate about public health and youth voices, she serves on the American Battlefield Trust as a youth leader, rides on her local ambulance, and is a TED-Ed speaker and mentor. In her free time, Sharika enjoys working out, playing with her dog, and visiting New York City.