Heritage Scientist

Historic Royal Palaces is the independent charity that looks after the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Kensington Palace, the Banqueting House, Kew Palace and Hillsborough Castle & Gardens. We care for thousands of historic objects, many of them in their original royal setting. We are looking for someone with a real interest in our history, the buildings and their contents, who can help conserve them to the standard they deserve: the best. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a world class lab, supported by an AHRC £1 million research infrastructure investment.

Responsibilities

• Work in and implement, project-manage and deliver specialist heritage science operations and cutting-edge research projects that support the Conservation & Collection Care, and Collections Management (CCC-CM) team’s annual and longer-term strategic programme of scientific investigations and research.
• Collaborate alongside the Heritage Science Manager on major research initiatives with internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide expert guidance to conservators, curators and other colleagues across HRP on science-based research and investigations, ensuring this work meets the highest professional standards.

Qualifications

• Training in a scientific discipline, with a specialism in heritage science or a relevant subject.
• An awareness of the materials and analytical science needed for the study, care and display of historic objects is essential.
• Laboratory work experience and familiarity with the operation of analytical instruments (e.g. SEM EDS, XRF, FTIR, HPLC, HSI).
• Strong practical computing experience and project management experience are desirable.
• Adaptable and creative problem-solver who can work independently.
• Enthusiastic and able to communicate effectively, with experience in the dissemination of information, both written and spoken, to proactively explain and promote heritage science to generalist and specialist audiences.

Benefits

• Hybrid working
• Enhanced holiday entitlement
• Generous Employers Pension Contributions (up to 11%)
• Annual Pay reviews & Bonuses
• Critical Illness Cover & Life Assurance
• Family friendly policies and benefits
• Staff discounts and membership to all palaces

Working Conditions

• This position is based at Hampton Court Palace, but you may be required to travel to our other palaces on occasion.
• The role involves working at heights.

Closing Date

Closing date: 23:55pm Wednesday 15 July 2026. We have adopted a hybrid model of part working from home and part working from site, we are open to discussing what best works for individuals and their work life balance whilst also delivering the business requirements.