Location
Bloomsbury, London - On-site daily (No hybrid working available)

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£32,468 per annum

About the Role
The British Museum is seeking a Project Curator to join the Horology section in the Department of Britain, Europe and Prehistory. You will play a key role in the specialist conservation and collections care of clocks and watches within one of the finest horological collections in the world, which includes over 8,000 objects and working clocks in the Sir Harry & Lady Djanogly galleries. This fixed term post, lasting 18 months, has been made possible through the generosity of donors of the 2025 British Museum Friends appeal.

Your responsibilities will include conservation of the horological collection under the supervision of the Horological Curators, ensuring appropriate storage, documentation, and maintenance of objects both in store and on public display. You will assist with improving records and photographs in the collection database as part of the Museum's Digitisation and Documentation programme, a major strategic initiative supporting the Museum Masterplan and the long-term preservation and accessibility of internationally significant collections.

Additional duties include supporting public access to the collection, assisting with the day-to-day running of the Horological Students’ Room, workshop, galleries and stores, and helping with the daily winding and maintenance of clocks throughout the Museum. You will also contribute to team activities such as the annual Dingwall-Beloe lecture and adapt your focus according to museum priorities.

The British Museum is undergoing its largest transformation in nearly 300 years, including building and gallery renovations, new ways of engaging audiences, and evolving ways of working. Guided by the vision of its founder Hans Sloane, the Museum aims to connect all arts and sciences and be accessible to everyone, everywhere.

Benefits include free exhibition entry for you and guests, exclusive private views, access to ICOM and reciprocal museums, a Civil Service Pension Scheme with significant employer contributions, 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays and privilege days, discounts at onsite catering and shops, social and wellbeing perks, learning and development opportunities, and interest-free loans.

Experience
Proven ability or potential to maintain the highest standards of practical conservation for horological objects, preserving items in store and ensuring they remain in sound running condition for public display. Experience working with a diverse range of horological types, from wristwatches to large clocks, including mass-produced and historically important unique examples, is desirable.

About you
You will have a deep and broad interest in the history of clocks and watches and demonstrate flexibility in your approach to work within a small team environment. Collaboration and exchange of ideas are vital, and you should be able to work independently while contributing to conservation treatment plans and raising new ideas. A good understanding of museums and relevant best practices is expected or the willingness to develop this knowledge.

Qualifications
While specific qualifications are not detailed, a commitment to developing a good understanding of museum standards and conservation best practices is essential. Adaptability to the evolving priorities of the Museum and a professional approach aligned with the British Museum’s values are required.