At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in delivering exciting international touring exhibitions and manage art collections.
- Company: Join the National Galleries of Scotland, a leader in art accessibility and inclusion.
- Benefits: Generous salary, flexible working, and a commitment to professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to equality and diversity.
- Why this job: Make art accessible globally and shape the future of cultural exhibitions.
- 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 in Edinburgh 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 in Edinburgh
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the art world! Attend exhibitions, workshops, and events where you can meet curators and other professionals. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Show Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for art and exhibitions shine through. Share your ideas on making art accessible and how you can contribute to their mission. Passion is contagious!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every conversation is a chance to showcase your skills. Be ready to discuss specific experiences from your past roles that align with the Assistant Curator position. Highlight your organisational skills and ability to work collaboratively.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team and contributing to our exciting touring programme.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Curator Touring Exhibitions in Edinburgh
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.
Show Off Your Communication Skills: Since clear communication is key in this role, use your application to demonstrate how you’ve built strong working relationships in the past. Share examples of how you’ve effectively communicated with colleagues and stakeholders.
Be Detail-Oriented: As a detail-oriented individual, make sure your application is free from typos and errors. This shows that you can manage time effectively and pay attention to the finer details, which is crucial for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at National Galleries of Scotland
✨Know Your Art History
Brush up on your art historical knowledge, especially related to the collection you'll be working with. Be prepared to discuss specific pieces or exhibitions that inspire you and how they relate to the role of Assistant Curator.
✨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 the past. Highlight any experience you have in a gallery or museum setting to demonstrate your familiarity with the environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and professionally. You’ll need to build relationships with various stakeholders, so being able to convey your ideas effectively will be key. Consider doing mock interviews with friends to refine your communication style.
✨Emphasise Your Passion for Accessibility
The role is about making art accessible to everyone, so be ready to discuss your views on equality, diversity, and inclusion in the arts. Share any relevant experiences or initiatives you've been involved in that align with these values.