I am an accredited conservator with 40 years of experience, specialising in public engagement, sustainable conservation, archive rationalisation and investigative conservation of archaeological artefacts, in the field and in post-excavation and museum contexts. I collaborate widely with individuals and institutions, and edited a volume drawing together research on the conservation of coins, Look after the Pennies (Archetype, 1998). Having previously worked for the American Museum of Natural History, Museum of London and the National Trust, I now lead DGB Conservation, a friendly team providing a range of conservation, exhibition design, installation, mounting and research services across the UK and abroad. We work frequently with organisations including Canterbury Archaeological Trust, Oxford Archaeology, Maidstone Museums, and Compton Verney Art Gallery.
We offer tailored expertise across archaeological conservation, including on-site lifting; assessment, conservation, and continued care and handling of museum objects; and materials science analyses. We have a well-stocked conservation laboratory based in Kent, and analytical equipment including a scanning electron microscope and FTIR machine.
Conservation Planning and Assessment
- Providing conservation advice at planning, fieldwork, and post-excavation stages.
- Compiling reports on the conservation needs of individual artefacts and site assemblages.
- Contributing to preservation in situ and reburial methodologies.
- X-radiography and 3D photogrammetry of artefacts for recording and treatment assessment.
- Targeted and general surveys of archaeological material.
Conservation Treatments
- Treatment of all types of object for archive deposition and display.
- On-site lifting of fragile objects and assemblages of objects; in-situ stabilisation of walls and wall plaster.
Scientific Research
- Research into the technology and stability of non-ferrous metals.
- Specialist analyses of object manufacture and composition using scanning electron microscopy and/or FTIR.
Training and Advocacy
- Training sessions on the general care of artefacts for archaeological and museum workers, including on-site lifting, pot washing and sticking, packaging, and X-radiography.
- Liaising between related professionals (planners, archaeologists, scientists, museums).
- Demonstrations, displays, and publications for clients and the general public.
Collection Handling
- Specialist packaging.
- Collection moves.
- Exhibition installation.
- Artwork handling.
- Mounting.
Client testimonials
Dana Goodburn-Brown is a dynamic worker and creative thinker. She is a knowledgeable and skilled conservator who gives so much more to our projects.
Dr Sophia Adams
Curator, European Iron Age and Roman Conquest Period, British Museum
Dana not only brings years of skill and knowledge in archaeological conservation when she works with out collections at Folkstone Museum, but also a passion and an ability to communicate the work she undertakes with visitors. We can say, with total confidence, that Dana and her team not only leave our artefacts in the best condition but our community also engaged and informed about our collection sand the work to preserve them, we recommend her services 110%.
Darran Cowd
Curator, Folkstone Museum
Dana Goodburn-Brown has been described as a combination of the intrepid adventurer Indiana Jones and the TV coroner Quincy. Laughing, Dana prefers the Quincy comparison but adds a more contemporary analog - a CSI detective.
Jo Geear
BBC Kent