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- Tasks: Lead research projects to enhance access to heritage science facilities and preserve written heritage.
- Company: The National Archives, a key player in heritage science and archival excellence.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, professional development, and the chance to make a lasting impact.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team dedicated to preserving the UK's rich documentary heritage for future generations.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills, experience with non-destructive methods, and a collaborative spirit.
- Other info: Fixed term role with opportunities for career growth and innovation in heritage science.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The National Archives’ Collection Care Department is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Heritage Scientist to play a central role in advancing our research capacity and enhancing access to heritage science facilities for the study of the UK’s written heritage. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to an ambitious and growing heritage science programme within one of the world’s most significant archival institutions.
Written heritage collections span over a millennium and encompass an extraordinary variety of materials, including paper, parchment, photographs, prints, wax seals, films and documents executed in a wide range of historical and modern media. As Senior Heritage Scientist, you will apply advanced analytical, imaging and research skills to deepen our understanding of these materials and support their long term preservation.
Working closely with the Head of Heritage Science and Conservation Research, you will help expand our external partnerships, develop collaborative research initiatives on various collections across the UK, and strengthen The National Archives’ role as an international centre of excellence for heritage science. You will lead and support research projects from conception through delivery, working with colleagues across Collection Care and the wider organisation, as well as national and international partners.
You will take an active role in enhancing our scientific infrastructure, ensuring the effective use of analytical instrumentation within the laboratory, and building research capacity through mentoring and supporting others. You will communicate your findings to diverse audiences, from internal teams to the international professional community, through publications, presentations, workshops and sector engagement.
We are looking for a scientist with strong analytical expertise, excellent problem solving abilities and a passion for the care of written heritage. You will bring substantial experience with non-destructive analytical methods, research design and delivery, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Your creativity, technical insight and commitment to innovation will directly support the preservation of our nation’s documentary heritage for generations to come.
This is a Fixed Term Appointment for 5 years. This is a full time post. However, requests for part-time working, flexible working and job share will be considered, taking into account at all times the operational needs of the Department. This role is based mostly onsite with some scope for remote working.
Senior Heritage Scientist Research Infrastructure and Access employer: The National Archives
Contact Detail:
The National Archives Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Heritage Scientist Research Infrastructure and Access
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the heritage science field through LinkedIn or industry events. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be in landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your previous research projects and analytical work. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your passion for written heritage shine through.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Before any interviews, do some mock sessions with friends or mentors. We all know that confidence is key, so get comfortable talking about your skills and experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at The National Archives.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Heritage Scientist Research Infrastructure and Access
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in heritage science. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your analytical expertise and problem-solving abilities!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for written heritage shine through! We’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about preserving our nation’s documentary heritage, so share any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to this field.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for the team!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, you’ll find all the information you need about the role and our organisation there.
How to prepare for a job interview at The National Archives
✨Know Your Heritage Science
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and techniques in heritage science. Familiarise yourself with non-destructive analytical methods and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in your previous work. This will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with various teams and external partners, be prepared to share examples of successful collaborations. Highlight any research initiatives you've led or contributed to, and how you navigated challenges while working with others.
✨Communicate Effectively
You’ll need to convey complex scientific findings to diverse audiences. Practice explaining your research in simple terms, and think about how you can engage different stakeholders, from internal teams to the international community. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about their heritage science programme, future projects, and how they envision the role evolving. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
