The History of Science Museum is looking for a knowledgeable and enthusiastic collections professional to oversee care and provide access to over 40,000 objects in their internationally-recognized collection, ranging from Roman sundials to Arabic astrolabes to contemporary collections from the COVID front lines. The post of Collections and Research Access Manager, Object Collections, provides an exceptional opportunity both to care for this important collection and to support research, teaching and public engagement with the history of science.
The Museum is currently developing Vision 2024, its ambitious strategy for the centenary redevelopment of its main building and displays. It is also planning for large-scale offsite moves and a new Collections Teaching and Research Centre. The Collections Manager for Object Collections will take part in these large-scale initiatives, contributing to the detailed process of planning as well as delivery. They will also have a vital ongoing role in managing and caring for the collection, maintaining and improving collections information and enabling access by researchers and inquirers in person and remotely.
The Collections Manager for Object Collections will manage all aspects of the object life cycle, including acquisitions and disposals, maintenance and improvement of digital and hard copy documentation, and the digitisation and rights management of the collection; all aspects of practical collections care, including storage planning and the handling, packing, and movement of collections between locations; support access to collections for research by academic, student, and public researchers; support internal displays and exhibitions, and oversee all aspects of loans to outside institutions.
The ideal candidate will have qualification in museum and/or library studies or equivalent experience, meticulous record-keeping standards, facility with databases (ideally Axiell EMu), and a demonstrable understanding of principles and practice of collections care and preservation. The role is joins a small but collegial team that emphasizes diplomacy, professionalism, and good relationships with internal and external stakeholders.