At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in groundbreaking research on cultural and heritage topics with Royal Museums Greenwich.
- Company: Join the prestigious Royal Museums Greenwich, a leader in cultural heritage.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, mentorship, and contribute to impactful projects.
- Other info: Flexible fellowship duration with opportunities for community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a difference in cultural heritage while developing your research skills.
- Qualifications: Early career postdoctoral researchers with a passion for cultural studies.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Royal Museums Greenwich (RMG) is delighted to have the opportunity to apply to an AHRC scheme which aims to enable early career postdoctoral researchers to gain research and career experience in the galleries, libraries, archives, and museums sector. The scheme will fund c.10 research fellowships in cultural and heritage institutions. Fellowships start 1 January 2027 and last one to two years (longer if part-time).
Each institution has set out priority areas for research and we welcome approaches from researchers engaged in the below topics who would be interested in co‑developing an application to the scheme with RMG. A formal expression of interest form must be submitted to the Cohort Coordination and Development team at the V&A by 10 December 2025. We would be glad to offer informal conversations with interested applicants in advance of this, subject to submission of a brief emailed proposal. Please send these to research@rmg.co.uk, by 14 November.
RMG’s areas of interest are as follows:
- British-Caribbean maritime connections: from transatlantic trade and the (resisted) use of enslaved African labour in the 18th century, through the experiences of Caribbean seafarers, to the passenger liners which brought people from the Caribbean to study and work in Britain in the mid-20th century. We especially welcome research which could strengthen RMG’s ability to mark Windrush 80 in 2028, which builds equitable access to collections for wider research use, and which is co‑designed with descendant and stakeholder communities.
- The democratisation of astronomy in the late 19th-early 20th centuries: We invite research which explores how female and non-professional astronomers were able to participate in astronomical communities of knowledge in this period, particularly through the relationship between the Royal Observatory, Greenwich (ROG) and the British Astronomical Association (BAA) as they shared people, instruments and expertise. There is scope to develop community engagement activities with the BAA and other astronomical societies to raise awareness of shared histories.
- Community-led research practice: Such research might explore how institutions can promote equitable access to cultural heritage for research; consider strategies through which they can promote research undertaken by individuals from non-academic backgrounds, and co-design resources and training which empower and give agency to researchers.
- Digital technologies: Research which illuminates the value of digital technologies to promoting collections access and engagement. Assets include RMG’s extensive oral history collection relating to the lives and experiences of seafarers. We welcome research which develops our capacity to manage and curate digital collections and to engage with digital humanities tools and methods.
Research Opportunity with Royal Museums Greenwich employer: Digital Preservation Coalition
Royal Museums Greenwich is an exceptional employer for early career postdoctoral researchers, offering a unique opportunity to engage with cultural and heritage institutions while contributing to meaningful research in a supportive environment. With a strong commitment to employee growth, RMG fosters a collaborative work culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages innovative approaches to research, particularly in areas that promote equitable access to collections and community engagement. Located in the historic and vibrant setting of Greenwich, employees benefit from a rich cultural backdrop and the chance to make a significant impact in the field of heritage studies.
Contact Details:
Digital Preservation Coalition Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Opportunity with Royal Museums Greenwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the field, especially those connected to Royal Museums Greenwich. Attend events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Get your research proposal polished and ready to go. Make sure it aligns with RMG’s areas of interest. We suggest you draft a brief email outlining your ideas and send it to research@rmg.co.uk before the deadline. This could open doors for informal chats that can really boost your application!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for cultural heritage! When you get the chance to chat with anyone from RMG, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share your thoughts on how your research can contribute to their mission and engage with the community. It’s all about making that personal connection!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got all the resources you need to make your application stand out. Plus, keep an eye on any updates or additional opportunities that might pop up. Staying proactive is key to landing that dream research fellowship!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Opportunity with Royal Museums Greenwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know RMG:Before you start writing, take some time to really understand what Royal Museums Greenwich is all about. Dive into their research areas and think about how your interests align with theirs. This will help you tailor your application and show us that you're genuinely interested.
Craft a Compelling Proposal:When you're putting together your proposal, make sure it's clear and engaging. Highlight your research ideas and how they connect to RMG's priorities. We want to see your passion and creativity shine through, so don’t hold back!
Be Professional but Authentic:While we love a good professional tone, don’t forget to let your personality come through in your writing. Be yourself! This helps us get a sense of who you are beyond just your qualifications.
Submit Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of everything. Plus, if you have any questions or need guidance, feel free to reach out to us before the deadline!
How to prepare for a job interview at Digital Preservation Coalition
✨Know Your Research Areas
Before the interview, dive deep into the specific research areas that Royal Museums Greenwich is interested in. Familiarise yourself with their past projects and how your work aligns with their goals. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about their current projects or future plans related to the fellowship. This demonstrates your genuine interest and helps you gauge if the institution is the right fit for you.
✨Showcase Your Community Engagement Skills
Since RMG values community-led research, be ready to discuss any past experiences where you've engaged with communities or stakeholders. Highlight how you can co-design research initiatives that empower diverse voices, which is crucial for this role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Digital Tools
Given the emphasis on digital technologies in their research, brush up on relevant digital humanities tools and methods. Be prepared to discuss how you can leverage these technologies to enhance collections access and engagement during your fellowship.
