At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our editorial team to enhance early modern correspondence metadata and support database development.
- Company: Oxford-hosted project within the Bodleian Libraries, focused on early modern letters.
- Benefits: 38 days annual leave, childcare services, family leave schemes, and discounted travel.
- Other info: Flexible working options available and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on historical research while working with fascinating manuscripts.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree, palaeographical skills, and strong IT and analytical abilities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for an Editor, Early Modern Letters Online (EMLO) to join our team. EMLO is an Oxford-hosted catalogue of early modern correspondence, now managed within the Bodleian Libraries. You will work with the editorial team to add and improve metadata for letters in the Bodleian’s manuscript collections, identify items of research interest, and support the ongoing development of the database. You will also liaise with the Curator of Early Modern Manuscripts, colleagues in BDLSS and EMLO, and contribute to publications, digital outputs, and wider collaborative initiatives.
This is a full-time post, working 37.5 hours per week. This role is primarily library-based, but working from home one or two days per week may be possible by agreement. Due to the nature of this post, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a satisfactory Basic DBS check due to working unsupervised with the library’s manuscript collections.
About You
You will have a relevant first degree and a postgraduate qualification in early modern history, literature, or equivalent experience. You will have palaeographical skills sufficient to read English secretary-hand of the 16th and 17th centuries, along with a strong understanding of early modern documents and their value for researchers. You will bring excellent IT skills, outstanding attention to detail, strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to work both independently and collaboratively. Experience with early modern texts or scholarly databases would be an advantage.
What We Offer
As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:
- 38 days of annual leave
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
How to apply
You will be required to upload your CV and a supporting statement as part of your online application. Your supporting statement should list each of the essential and desirable selection criteria, as listed in the job description, and explain how you meet each one. CVs alone will not be considered.
We aim to provide a supportive working environment and are happy to discuss training and professional development opportunities. The Chair of this recruitment panel will be Mike Webb, Curator of Early Modern Archives and Manuscripts, who can be contacted with enquiries relating to the role. General queries about the recruitment and application process should be directed to the GLAM Recruitment team.
Only applications received online by 12.00 midday (BST) on Monday 27 July 2026 can be considered. Interviews are expected to take place during week commencing 17 August 2026.
Editor in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant research environment that fosters creativity and innovation in neuroscience. With access to cutting-edge facilities and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to grow professionally through various development opportunities. Located in the historic city of Oxford, the university provides a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers in research.
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