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- Tasks: Lead scientific analysis of historic textiles and develop a groundbreaking molecular database.
- Company: Join the British Museum, a world-renowned institution with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days' annual leave, free exhibition entry, and exclusive private views.
- Other info: Hybrid working available, with opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on heritage science and connect science with global histories.
- Qualifications: PhD in Chemistry or related field, with experience in dye analysis using LC-MS.
The predicted salary is between 36396 - 36396 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the British Museum as a Research Scientist, contributing to DYE-a-LOG, a major ERC-funded project re-examining the global history of early synthetic dyes. You will lead the scientific analysis of historic textiles from South and Southeast Asia and Latin America, using state-of-the-art LC-MS techniques to uncover how synthetic dyes transformed textile production, trade and colour cultures in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Working within the Museum’s world-class Department of Scientific Research, you will collaborate closely with curators, historians and international partners, and play a key role in building a ground-breaking open-access molecular database of early synthetic dyes that will reshape research in heritage science and textile history.
We are looking for a motivated researcher with a PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science or a related field, and experience analysing organic materials – ideally dyes – using liquid chromatography‑mass spectrometry. You are confident working with complex datasets, enjoy interdisciplinary collaboration, and are keen to see scientific research inform wider historical and cultural understanding.
You communicate clearly, work well in international research teams, and are enthusiastic about producing high-quality publications while engaging audiences beyond academia. You are particularly drawn to research that connects science with global histories, sustainability and decolonisation.
Key areas of responsibility:- Perform advanced dye analysis of historic textiles using LC-MS and complementary analytical techniques, and interpret results in collaboration with curators and researchers.
- Analyse dye reference materials and contribute to the development of an open-access molecular database of early synthetic dyes.
- Optimise and develop analytical protocols for identifying natural and synthetic dyes in historical textiles.
- Produce high-quality research outputs, including peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and public-facing content.
- Contribute to the installation, use and good practice of cutting-edge analytical facilities within the Department of Scientific Research.
- Work collaboratively across museum departments and international partner institutions, supporting workshops, symposia and project reporting.
The British Museum is undertaking its biggest transformation since its founding nearly 300 years ago. This physical and intellectual transformation includes large scale building and gallery transformation, new ways of connecting with audiences and different ways of working.
At the British Museum, we believe our people are at the heart of everything we do and have designed a benefits package that goes beyond the ordinary. Our full list of benefits can be found here. Free exhibition entry for you and guests, exclusive private views, ICOM and reciprocal museum access. 25 days' annual leave plus.
Research Scientist - Dyes and Textiles in London employer: British Museum
Contact Detail:
British Museum Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Scientist - Dyes and Textiles in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in your field! Attend conferences, workshops, or even local meet-ups related to textiles and dyes. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or collaborations that could lead to your next big opportunity.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or collaborators, make sure to highlight your experience with LC-MS techniques and your passion for interdisciplinary research. Share specific examples of your work that demonstrate how you've tackled complex datasets and contributed to meaningful projects.
✨Follow Up After Interviews
After any interviews or networking events, don’t forget to send a quick thank-you email. It’s a great way to show your appreciation and keep yourself fresh in their minds. Plus, it gives you another chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the exciting work at the British Museum!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Make sure to apply directly through our website for the best chance at landing that Research Scientist position. We love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission, so don’t hesitate to showcase your unique skills and experiences that align with the DYE-a-LOG project!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Scientist - Dyes and Textiles in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Scientist role. Highlight your PhD and any relevant experience with LC-MS techniques, as well as your passion for interdisciplinary collaboration. We want to see how your background fits perfectly with our exciting project!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for the DYE-a-LOG project and how your skills can contribute to reshaping textile history. Don’t forget to mention your interest in sustainability and decolonisation – it’s a big deal for us!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since we value clear communication, make sure to demonstrate your ability to convey complex ideas simply. Whether it's in your CV or cover letter, let us know how you've successfully worked in international teams and engaged audiences beyond academia.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our amazing benefits!
How to prepare for a job interview at British Museum
✨Know Your Dyes
Make sure you brush up on the history and science of synthetic dyes, especially those relevant to South and Southeast Asia and Latin America. Being able to discuss specific examples and their impact on textile production will show your passion and expertise.
✨Master the LC-MS Techniques
Since this role involves advanced dye analysis using LC-MS, be prepared to talk about your experience with this technique. Bring examples of past projects where you've successfully used LC-MS to analyse organic materials, and be ready to discuss any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Collaboration is Key
This position requires working closely with curators and international partners. Think of examples from your past where you collaborated effectively in a team setting. Highlight your communication skills and how you can bridge the gap between scientific research and historical context.
✨Engage Beyond Academia
The British Museum values outreach and public engagement. Prepare to discuss how you can make your research accessible to wider audiences. Consider how you might present complex scientific findings in a way that captivates non-specialists, perhaps through workshops or public talks.