The Science Museum is looking for a Curator of Art Collections to work with its collections and both develop and share knowledge of their histories and meanings. This role provides an opportunity to join a team working on a wide range of projects caring for, interpreting and developing a remarkable collection. The role will be based in London with opportunities to travel as part of the Science Museum Group. It is offered on a permanent, full-time basis.

Interviews are expected to be conducted on 5 May 2017. More information and application until 23 April.

What you will be doing:

Collections Interpretation:

• Develop proposals for temporary exhibitions showcasing the collections and working with the Development and Exhibitions teams on funding proposals.
• Respond to enquiries relating to our Art Collections and research by museum staff and external users.
• Support the development and delivery of high quality exhibitions that include the Art Collections
• Work with colleagues across SMG to ensure high-quality representation of Art Collections
• Work with colleagues to commission new artwork for masterplan galleries and temporary exhibitions
• Interpret the collections for non-specialist audiences in online and print media. As required, acting as press spokesperson.
• Support events for Science Museum Lates and other outlets with occasional evening working.
• Build and maintain partnerships with relevant artists, external contacts and stakeholders.

Collections Management:

• Develop knowledge and understanding of the Science Museum Group’s Art Collections.
• Research, identify and catalogue paintings, prints, drawings, sculpture and relevant media
• Combine the Art Collection with the Contemporary Art collections to advise on acquisitions (donations and purchase) for the collections
• Support Conservation and Curatorial Services in terms of preservation of fine and contemporary art and best practice in valuations, loans and acquisitions for The Art Collections
• Develop and implement acquisition and disposal strategies for a range of art collections.
• Provide expert curatorial input to the Science Museum Group collections storage and digitization project.
• Develop links with related collections in the UK and abroad, promoting increased loan-outs of, and visibility for, the collections.
• Work with the Conservation & Collections Care, Digitisation and Registration teams to ensure best practice in management of the collections.
• Assist and facilitate the Museum’s commercial activities in relation to our artworks.
• Develop and supervise volunteer projects working on the collections

Research:

• Undertake research on the art collections, publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
• Foster links with the interested communities, including professional societies, enthusiast groups and industry.
• Represent SMG at sector conferences.
• Work with the Research & Public History team to develop research projects, and associated funding bids, furthering understanding of the collections.
• Supervise research students as required.
• Conceive and lead a conference (c.50 participants) on a theme related to history, museology, or public communication of science and technology art.

General:

• Take care of your personal health and safety and that of others. Comply with the Science Museum Group H&S Policies, risk assessments and safe systems of work and report any health and safety concerns.
• Undertake any other tasks required to fulfil the duties of this role.

Salary: £25,000 - £30,000 per annum.