Raksha Dave

Raksha Dave is a Field Archaeologist, Public Archaeologist and Broadcaster. In 1999, Raksha graduated from the UCL Institute of Archaeology, having already excavated on research projects in the UK, Puerto Rico and Texas. In 2000, she secured her first position as a commercial field archaeologist based in London where she worked predominantly. During this time she also worked on various research projects around the world including the Catalhoyuk Research Project in Turkey. In 2003, Raksha was recruited by Channel Four’s popular archaeology programme ‘Time Team’ – where she was a regular face on the show until its final episode in 2013. 

 In between all of her time excavating Raksha realised her passion for working with communities and the public whilst employed by a local authority in London; commissioning, developing and delivering public services in education and early years as part of a major government funded initiative.  This is reflected in her later work when she returned back to the heritage sector. Raksha developed and managed various HLF funded community projects, sat on the board of trustees for the Council for British Archaeology (London) and became an advocate and patron for the Young Archaeologists Club. 

Raksha has now come full circle and has returned to Public Archaeology and broadcasting she recently presented the BBC Learning Zone ‘Ancient Voices’ programme on Prehistory, Co-Presented ‘Pompeii’s Final Hours: New Evidence’ for Channel 5 and ‘Digging for Britain’ - Series 7 for BBC 4. Raksha is currently working on future broadcasting projects and acts as an advocate and consultant for various arts organisations looking to broaden audience participation by looking at ways to encourage diversity and inclusivity in their workplace practise.