At a Glance
- Tasks: Help deliver exciting international exhibitions and share Scotland's art with the world.
- Company: Join the National Galleries of Scotland, a leader in art accessibility and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous benefits, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of an ambitious team shaping the future of art exhibitions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the art world while promoting diversity and inclusion.
- Qualifications: Experience in galleries or museums and a passion for art history.
The predicted salary is between 32171 - 35093 £ per year.
Location: Edinburgh
Salary: £32,171 - £35,093 per annum plus generous benefits and hybrid/flexible working
Application Deadline: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Full-time and Fixed Term to 31 March 2030
About the role
We are delighted to announce a new opportunity for an Assistant Curator to join our Collection & Research team. In this role you’ll play an important part in helping to deliver our ambitious international touring exhibitions programme, enabling works from Scotland’s national collection to be shared with audiences around the world. The touring programme consists of bespoke exhibitions drawn from works that cover the breadth and range of the collection.
We’re looking for a highly organised and detail-oriented individual with the ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines. You will already have professional experience of working in a gallery or museum environment, or with an art or heritage collection and have a particular area of art historical interest or expertise. You’ll be confident working both independently and collaboratively, supported by colleagues across the Collection & Research team.
A clear and professional communicator, you will build strong working relationships with colleagues, partners, and stakeholders, while keeping relevant parties informed of progress and any issues. You will work with the dedicated international touring exhibitions team, and a wide range of stakeholders across the organisation, as well as with external partners. Therefore the ability to build effective working relationships and communicate clearly is essential. You’ll also be passionate about making art accessible to everyone and committed to supporting equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
About the Touring Programme
National Galleries of Scotland is launching an ambitious international touring programme contributing to our aim to make art work for everyone. This new initiative builds on past touring success and increases opportunities for the collection to be shared with audiences across the world. The touring programme is also part of our strategy to grow our income to ensure our future financial sustainability. Work has already begun and we are now recruiting a number of posts from May 2026 to support taking the touring programme forward. The programme will run initially to 31 March 2030. The success of the initiative will determine next steps for both the programme and the team supporting it. You will help to deliver this ambitious new initiative. This is an excellent opportunity for a results-driven individual to demonstrate their impact and contribute to shaping the success of the programme.
Closing date for applications
The closing date for completed applications is 12 noon on Wednesday, 13 May 2026.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
At the National Galleries of Scotland we’re committed to embedding Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in the way we work. We want everyone to feel a sense of belonging and freedom to be themselves at work or at play with us. Take a look at our Equality, Inclusion and Diversity priorities and commitments for more information.
Assistant Curator Touring Exhibitions employer: National Galleries of Scotland
Contact Detail:
National Galleries of Scotland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Curator Touring Exhibitions
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the art and heritage scene! Attend exhibitions, workshops, and events to meet potential colleagues and partners. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with someone about the role, let your enthusiasm for art and accessibility shine through! Share your ideas on how to make exhibitions more engaging for diverse audiences. We want to see that fire in your belly!
✨Follow Up
After any interviews or networking chats, don’t forget to send a quick thank-you email! It shows you’re professional and genuinely interested in the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in their minds as they make decisions.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Make sure to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed! We’ve designed our application process to be straightforward, so you can focus on showcasing your skills and experience without any hassle.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Curator Touring Exhibitions
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Assistant Curator role. Highlight your relevant experience in galleries or museums, and showcase your passion for making art accessible to everyone. We want to see how you fit into our vision!
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since clear communication is key in this role, don’t shy away from demonstrating your ability to build relationships. Use examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully collaborated with colleagues or stakeholders. We love a good story!
Be Detail-Oriented: As a highly organised individual, make sure your application reflects your attention to detail. Double-check for any typos or formatting issues before hitting send. We appreciate a polished application that shows you care!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Galleries of Scotland
✨Know Your Art History
Brush up on your art historical knowledge, especially in areas relevant to the collection. Be prepared to discuss specific works or artists that excite you and how they relate to the touring exhibitions programme.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role requires strong organisational abilities, come ready with examples of how you've successfully managed projects or deadlines in previous roles. Highlight any experience in a gallery or museum setting that demonstrates your attention to detail.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and professionally. You’ll need to build relationships with various stakeholders, so be ready to discuss how you’ve effectively communicated in past roles, especially in collaborative environments.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Accessibility
Demonstrate your commitment to making art accessible to everyone. Share any experiences or ideas you have about promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within the arts, as this aligns closely with the organisation's values.