About the role
Embedded within the Vertebrates Division, the Curator / Senior Curator of Fishes will be developing expertise (Curator) or a recognised expert (Senior Curator) in their field of collections-based science and will demonstrate relevant scientific scholarship (e.g., taxonomy, systematics, evolution).
The post holder will be responsible for our world-class ichthyological collection, ensuring best practice in collections care, and providing access to research, teaching, and exhibitions. In addition, the Senior Curator will be expected to conduct and support collections-based research and participate in securing external funding for that purpose.
The NHM Fish Collection is based in South Kensington, although the Senior Curator of Fishes will be expected to work closely with NHM staff across sites when required (e.g. at our new Science and Digitisation Centre at the Thames Valley Science Park once open). This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a team managing caring for one of the world’s largest and most important fish collections.
About you
Qualifications
- Minimum 1-2 years of collections management experience, and relevant qualification e.g. zoology, evolution, biodiversity.
- Knowledge and experience of (ichthyological) collections management, demonstrating the care and development of a collection via the successful delivery of curatorial projects.
- Demonstrable practical experience of collections information systems (e.g. Specify, EMu) for core collections data management processes, e.g. object tracking, registrations, loans (essential).
- Skills in specimen digitisation practices and workflows (essential), e.g. photography, radiography, micro-computed tomography.
- Experience of and enthusiasm for public and scientific engagement, e.g. contribution to exhibitions or outreach, conference presentations, social media.
- Excellent communication skills and proven ability to work as part of a team, as well as ability to manage others (e.g. volunteers, students) in a curatorial or scientific capacity.
- A taxonomic specialism in a particular fish group(s), knowledge of associated literature and systematics/taxonomy/biology, with the ability to provide expert advice within the Museum and externally.
- Experience of ichthyological research (essential), a track record of publishing high quality scientific articles (desirable), and an understanding of funding opportunities and research priorities (desirable).
What we offer
- 27.5 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays (full time equivalent)
- Generous defined contribution Natural History Museum Pension Scheme (employer contribution 4 - 10%)
- Season ticket, bicycle and rental loan
- Life insurance
- Free admission to our exhibitions and many other paid exhibitions at museums, galleries and institutions across London and the UK.
- Staff discount at our Museum shops and cafes
- We offer a wide variety of training initiatives and opportunities to build skills. Investing in staff development is important to us, and we are ambitious about helping staff to grow and fulfil their potential.
- Affordable membership to the Civil Service Sports Council which offers a range of benefits including an extensive list of special offers and reduced entry fees at a selection of cinema chains, theme parks, theatres, retailers and supermarkets. It also provides entry to up to 300 English Heritage sites and other national treasures. For more details, visit https://www.cssc.co.uk
- Membership to our Sports and Social Association (for a small fee), which includes access to our in-house gym and clubs such as football, softball, table tennis and tennis and classes in Middle Eastern dance, yoga and Tai Chi
How to apply
If that sounds like you, please apply online on the Natural History Museum’s careers portal, at https://careers.nhm.ac.uk/
Closing date: 9am, Friday 29th September 2023
Interviews expected: mid-October onwards.
Salary: £33,396 (SC2) Curator or £40,282 (SC3) Senior Curator, subject to experience.
Please note that this role qualifies for Museum sponsorship. Whilst we would still expect the successful postholder to have valid right to work in the UK at the point of starting the role, the Museum can support in obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship for this role to apply for future or continued right to work in the UK. Please contact our Recruitment Team at hrrecruitment@nhm.ac.uk if you have any further queries regarding this.
