Dr Jessica Hoare

(she/her)

Biography

Dr Jess Hoare is a researcher and experienced heritage professional interested in how innovative technologies influence emotional engagement with heritage and culture. experiences. Her doctoral research developed a mixed-methods methodology using physiological monitoring to capture a broader range of emotional responses at heritage sites. Her work critically examines the limitations of such technologies, particularly in how they may exclude or misrepresent certain visitor experiences, especially for marginalised or underrepresented groups. She advocates for more nuanced, ethical, and inclusive approaches to interpreting visitor engagement that consider who benefits from, and who is excluded by, these technological interventions.

With over a decade of experience in the heritage and digital innovation sectors, she has worked with/for organisations such as Nesta, Tate Liverpool, the National Trust, Arts Council England, and Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales. She has led projects at the intersection of creative industries and emerging technologies, including as Digital Innovation Lead at Museum Wales, , where she focused on the use of digital tools to support accessibility and inclusion.

In her current role at Media Cymru, Jess leads research focusing on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), access, and addressing barriers to inclusion and belonging in the creative industries. She collaborates with researchers and creative business to address ethical issues in digital innovation, access, and cultural entrepreneurship. She also serves on the Advisory Board of South West Museum Development, where she provides strategic guidance on their programmes and evaluation processes, and acts as the board lead for EDI.