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- Tasks: Join us as a Research Associate to explore British Art and develop your curatorial skills.
- Company: The Fitzwilliam Museum is a prestigious cultural hub at the University of Cambridge, renowned for its collections.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, an attractive pension scheme, and employee discounts in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: This role offers hands-on experience in curatorial practice and the chance to impact diverse audiences.
- Qualifications: A keen interest in British art and some museum experience are preferred; strong IT skills are essential.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements are available, and you'll have opportunities for placements at the AGO in Toronto.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
As the principal museum of the University of Cambridge and the largest cultural venue in the region, The Fitzwilliam Museum acts as a crucial bridge between the University, the City and the rest of the world, and has an international reputation for extraordinary research, world class exhibitions, award-winning public programmes and significant collections spanning many cultures and centuries. The Hamilton Kerr Institute (HKI) is a sub-department of the museum and is one of the world\’s leading centres for teaching and research in paintings conservation and heritage science.
The Fitzwilliam Museum holds an important collection of British art, across paintings, drawings, prints, miniature, sculpture, decorative arts and books, spanning the Medieval era through the present day. This is an exciting opportunity for an early career researcher to be develop their curatorial practice around British Art (1700-1950). The post holder will have the opportunity to build partnerships in the University of Cambridge and beyond, and participating in research networks such as the Collections-Connections-Communities initiative. We particularly encourage applicants who will seek to bring new perspectives to these collections, including from under-represented audiences and considering collection histories.
The post holder will gain skills and experience in all aspects of curatorial work and museological practice, including temporary displays and exhibitions, communication skills and public programming, and collaborating. They will support the Senior Curator, Prints & Drawings, including with collections enquiries and access, and work with other curators, collections management staff, photographers, the documentation team, conservators, scientists, learning staff and other colleagues across the Museum and the wider University.
The post holder will have keen interest in aspects of British art, and preferably some knowledge or experience of working in a museum, library or archive. They will be adept at working independently and as part of a team, with excellent IT and digital skills.In return we offer an encouraging and supportive environment, generous holiday allowance, an attractive pension scheme and many employee benefits such as a shopping discounts scheme.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 36 months. The three-year fellowship is made possible thanks to the generous support of the Thomson Collection at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), and the fellow with have the opportunity for annual placements at the AGO in Toronto, a national museum within a major multicultural city.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.
Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.
Click the \’Apply\’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Closing date for applications: 13th July 2025
Interviews for the role will be held: w/c 28th July 2025
Please quote reference DA46437 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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Research Associate: Graham Reynolds Curatorial Fellowship in British Art (Fixed Term) employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate: Graham Reynolds Curatorial Fellowship in British Art (Fixed Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Fitzwilliam Museum's collections, especially those related to British art from 1700-1950. Understanding the nuances of their collection will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the Fitzwilliam Museum or similar institutions. This can provide you with insider knowledge about the museum's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider attending events or exhibitions at the Fitzwilliam Museum or related venues. Engaging with the community and showing your enthusiasm for their work can leave a positive impression and may even lead to valuable connections.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you can contribute to the Collections-Connections-Communities initiative. Think about innovative ideas that could enhance audience engagement and representation, as this aligns with the museum's goals and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate: Graham Reynolds Curatorial Fellowship in British Art (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Research Associate position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role, particularly in curatorial practice and British art.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experiences, especially any work in museums, libraries, or archives. Emphasise your IT and digital skills, as well as any collaborative projects you've been involved in.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for British art and your understanding of the museum's mission. Mention how you can contribute to the collections and engage under-represented audiences, as highlighted in the job description.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you follow all application instructions carefully. Register on the recruitment system, quote the reference DA46437, and submit your application before the closing date of 13th July 2025.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Research the Museum and Its Collections
Before your interview, take the time to thoroughly research The Fitzwilliam Museum and its collections, especially focusing on British art from 1700-1950. Understanding the museum's mission, recent exhibitions, and current projects will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Curatorial Vision
Be prepared to discuss your ideas for curatorial practice and how you would approach working with the museum's collections. Think about how you can bring new perspectives, particularly from under-represented audiences, and be ready to share specific examples of how you would engage with these communities.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have any previous experience in a museum, library, or archive, make sure to highlight this during your interview. Discuss specific projects or roles that relate to curatorial work, collections management, or public programming, as this will show your capability and readiness for the position.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Having thoughtful questions prepared for your interviewers can set you apart. Ask about the museum's future initiatives, opportunities for collaboration within the University, or how they envision the role contributing to their goals. This shows your enthusiasm and engagement with the position.
