At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research and enhance collections of Ancient Middle East and Egypt at the British Museum.
- Company: Join the iconic British Museum, a hub for culture and history.
- Benefits: Enjoy free exhibition entry, peer support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with a vibrant team dedicated to inclusivity and empowerment.
- Why this job: Make ancient cultures accessible and engage the public through innovative displays and research.
- Qualifications: Strong background in history or archaeology with experience in research and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 36396 - 36396 £ per year.
The British Museum is seeking a Curator for Reception of Ancient Middle East and Egypt. This role is at the heart of researching how these world-defining cultures have been understood, collected, and interpreted over time.
Role Summary
- Full-time: 41 hours per week
- Hybrid: at least 3 days per week on-site in Bloomsbury, London
- 3 year fixed term contract
- £36,396 per annum
- Application deadline: 12pm (midday) on 17 April
About the role
You will lead research and acquisition activity, upgrade collection documentation, and make the Museum’s collections publicly accessible through publications, displays, digital outputs, and broadcasts. Working closely with colleagues across Middle East, Egypt & Sudan, and beyond, you’ll help deliver the Masterplan and contribute to new displays, gallery developments, and cross-Museum research ambitions.
About you
We’re looking for a researcher with strong academic grounding in history, archaeology, or reception studies relating to the Ancient Middle East and/or Egypt. You’ll bring experience of working with objects, producing publications, and collaborating with colleagues or external partners on research projects. You’re an effective communicator, comfortable balancing research with day-to-day curatorial duties, and able to work independently while contributing actively to departmental and Museum-wide goals. A passion for public engagement and for explaining how ancient cultures have been understood both in the past and the present is essential.
Key areas of responsibility
- Lead research and documentation upgrades for the Ancient Middle East and Egypt & Sudan collections.
- Deliver research projects, working collaboratively with internal colleagues and external partners.
- Build the collection through acquisitions via donation or purchase.
- Engage with future gallery planning and lead the registration and documentation of the Ian Black Collection of political memorabilia.
- Make the collection publicly accessible through publications, digital platforms, displays, and broadcast media.
- Represent the Museum as an advocate, contribute to income-generation activity, and support day-to-day departmental operations.
Our Values
Our values drive everything we do, from how we handle our objects to how we work in our team to fostering a culture where everyone feels heard and empowered:
- Care Deeply
- Embrace the Unknown
- Value Many Voices
These are a core part of how we recruit. Throughout the application, interview, and selection process, we look for examples of how candidates demonstrate these behaviours in their own work and experiences. We encourage you to familiarise yourself with our values and reflect them in your application.
At the British Museum, we are committed to a fair and inclusive recruitment process where every applicant has the opportunity to present their genuine strengths and experience in their own voice.
If you have any additional needs that we should be aware of to support you with your application, please provide details to jamar@britishmuseum.org.
Vacancy for Curator: Reception of Ancient Middle East and Egypt employer: Theartgorgeous
The British Museum is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values diversity and inclusivity. As a Curator in the Ancient Middle East and Egypt department, you will have access to extensive learning and development opportunities, including mentoring and support for professional qualifications, all while working in the heart of London. With benefits like free exhibition entry, peer support networks, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, the Museum fosters an environment where your passion for ancient cultures can thrive and make a meaningful impact.
