The University of Oxford has been a key player in the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the generous support of the E P A Cephalosporin Fund, an innovative project in contemporary collecting has been created to capture this major research effort. The History of Science Museum’s new Collecting COVID Curator is leading on this collaborative initiative with the Bodleian Libraries. Working with divisional colleagues – from the Medical Sciences and the Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences Divisions in particular – the project will ensure that the stories, artefacts and ephemera of the world-leading research work undertaken by Oxford scientists are recorded and preserved to support future science education and research, and shared widely with public audiences both onsite and online.
In this exciting and fast-paced role, you will work with colleagues across the Museum, harnessing the unique storytelling potential of objects, 2D material, oral histories and multisensory experiences to provide a distinctive take on the latest developments in science, technology, and medicine. You will develop and deliver strategies to grow the representation of contemporary science in our collections, and ensure that HSM is at the forefront of thinking about the material culture of recent science.
This role demands a high level of self-motivation and the ability to communicate effectively with a range of people. You will be able to respond quickly to high-pressure needs and unexpected opportunities, and balance research, curatorial and interpretative work with routine and necessary administrative tasks.
You will work in tandem with a parallel archivist role at the Bodleian Library and an oral historian, and will also collaborate and coordinate with collecting initiatives nationally and internationally. The role has the potential to transform local collecting, lead innovative partnerships and to develop and publish new research on the material culture of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The role is two years fixed term.
Applications for this vacancy are to be made online. You will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement as part of your online application. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford. HSM is committed to equality and valuing diversity.
The closing date for applications is 12.00 noon on Friday 20 August 2021. Interviews are expected to take place on Thursday 09 September 2021.