Location
Orsman Road, London (Hybrid working with at least 2 days per week on-site)
Hours
Full Time
Salary
£46,329 per annum
About the Role
This is an opportunity to join the British Museum as Project Curator, undertaking and directing research into early fire in the Palaeolithic as part of the Fire in Europe project. You will lead fieldwork at key Breckland sites and develop post excavation research, working with project partners at Queen Mary University of London and University College London and with specialists and research colleagues across Europe. Alongside developing the project's research programme, you will contribute to its academic and public impact through publications, international conferences, workshops and public engagement initiatives. The role combines fieldwork, collections and object research and international collaboration, offering the opportunity to help shape new approaches to understanding evidence for early fire in Europe.
Key Responsibilities
Direct excavations at key Breckland sites and manage fieldwork teams
Coordinate post excavation research and specialist investigations into evidence for fire
Develop research with UK and European partners, including a database of early fire evidence
Publish and present project research in peer reviewed journals and at international conferences
Organise international workshops and a conference on early fire
Develop public engagement initiatives and contribute to teaching and Museum research activities
The Masterplan
The British Museum is undertaking its biggest transformation since its founding nearly 300 years ago. This physical and intellectual transformation includes large scale building and gallery transformation, new ways of connecting with audiences and different ways of working. As we look towards this exciting future, we remain guided by the words of our founder Hans Sloane - who dreamed of a museum connecting all arts and sciences, which would be accessible to everyone, everywhere.
Benefits
Free exhibition entry for you and guests, exclusive private views, ICOM and reciprocal museum access
Civil Service Pension Scheme defined benefit with considerable employer contribution
25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays and 2.5 privilege days (and +5 days after 10 years)
Discounts at onsite catering, Museum shops and local Bloomsbury partners
Social and wellbeing perks including staff parties, social clubs, CSSC sports and leisure, and support from the Civil Service Retirement Fellowship
Peer support and allyship with five diversity networks for community
Learning and development through courses, mentoring and Athena as well as support for professional qualifications
Interest‑free loans including season ticket, rental deposit and bicycle loans
Values
Our values drive everything we do, from how we handle our objects to how we work in our team to fostering a culture where everyone feels heard and empowered:
Care Deeply
Embrace the Unknown
Spark Curiosity
Value Many Voices
These values are a core part of how we recruit and are reflected throughout the application, interview and selection process.
Experience
PhD in Palaeolithic archaeology with extensive knowledge of the field
Significant experience in lithic analysis
Practical experience directing Palaeolithic excavations and undertaking post excavation research
Experience working with Palaeolithic collections in a curatorial environment
Proven ability to manage field teams, research activity and budgets
Postdoctoral research experience with a strong publication record in peer reviewed journals
Ability to communicate research effectively to academic and public audiences
About You
Confident collaborator able to work with colleagues and specialists in the UK and internationally
Motivated to contribute to academic and public impact through publications, conferences, workshops and engagement initiatives
Qualifications
PhD in Palaeolithic archaeology or related discipline
The British Museum










