At a Glance
- Tasks: Curate exhibitions and activities that amplify Black British voices and history.
- Company: Cambridge University Library is dedicated to exploring diverse histories and fostering community engagement.
- Benefits: Flexible working arrangements and opportunities for part-time roles available.
- Why this job: Join a meaningful project that connects history with contemporary experiences and promotes inclusivity.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of Black British History and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Applications from BME candidates are particularly encouraged to enhance representation.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Cambridge University Library is embarking on a major project to explore and amplify the history and voices of Black British communities, though the collections of Cambridge University Library and beyond. Black British Voices: Black British Collections will connect historical records with contemporary experiences aiming to foster a nuanced understanding of Black British identities.
At the project\’s heart is a Community Panel who will guide, shape and curate a programme of activities, events, exhibitions and other outputs. CUL is also collaborating with civic partners, academic partners, and a project Advisory Board. We are recruiting a Project Curator to support this project.
The Project Curator will have a key role in the process of developing the programme and exhibition. With a good knowledge of Black British History, they will identify objects, collections, and narratives to enable the Community Panel and Academic Lead to tell the stories they want to highlight. An ability to contextualise objects and archives within a framework of Black British History and be able to communicate that history for a broad audience is crucial.
The Project Curator will attend meetings of the Community Panel with responsibility for preparing items for discussion at meetings, and taking a lead on research. The Project Curator will take a key role in the final object selection, laying out the exhibition, and writing and proofing exhibition text.
Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University. Please ensure you have discussed and obtained permission from your current line manager.
We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our institution.
Click the \’Apply\’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact Chris Burgess (Head of Public Programmes) on cpb63@cam.ac.uk.
The closing date for applications is Sunday 10 August 2025 with the interview dates to be advised.
Please ensure that you have uploaded a covering letter as well as a CV for this post indicating how you meet the criteria for the position.
This is a fixed-term post with funding available for 12 months in the first instance.
Please quote reference VE46750 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Further information
- Further Particulars
Apply online #J-18808-Ljbffr
Public Programme Project Curator - British Black Voices (Fixed Term) employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Programme Project Curator - British Black Voices (Fixed Term)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the collections at Cambridge University Library, especially those related to Black British history. Understanding the existing materials will help you identify gaps and opportunities for new narratives that can be explored in your role.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with local Black British communities and organisations before applying. Building relationships and understanding their perspectives will not only enrich your application but also demonstrate your commitment to community involvement, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your vision for the programme and exhibition during the interview. Think about how you would curate stories and objects that resonate with both historical and contemporary experiences of Black British identities.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by being ready to explain complex historical contexts in an accessible way. Consider how you would present these narratives to a broad audience, as this will be a key part of your role as a Project Curator.
We think you need these skills to ace Public Programme Project Curator - British Black Voices (Fixed Term)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Project Curator position. Familiarise yourself with the aims of the Black British Voices project and how your skills and experiences align with the role.
Craft a Tailored Covering Letter: Your covering letter should specifically address how you meet the criteria outlined in the job description. Highlight your knowledge of Black British history and any relevant experience in curating or community engagement.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous roles or projects that demonstrate your ability to curate exhibitions, conduct research, and engage with diverse communities. Use specific examples to illustrate your contributions.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to follow all application instructions carefully. Upload both your CV and covering letter, and remember to quote the reference VE46750 in your application. Double-check for any additional requirements before submitting.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Black British History
Make sure you have a solid understanding of Black British history and its key narratives. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your passion for the subject matter.
✨Engage with the Community Panel Concept
Familiarise yourself with the role of the Community Panel in the project. Be prepared to discuss how you would engage with community members and incorporate their voices into the programme.
✨Showcase Your Curatorial Skills
Be ready to talk about your experience with curating exhibitions or programmes. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully selected objects or narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the project, as well as your proactive approach to understanding the organisation's goals.