As the principal museum of the University of Cambridge and the largest cultural venue in the region, The Fitzwilliam Museum acts as a crucial bridge between the University, the City and the rest of the world, and has an international reputation for extraordinary research, world-class exhibitions, award-winning public programmes and significant collections spanning many cultures and centuries. The Fitzwilliam Museum collection comprises 500,000 objects, displayed in galleries or housed in storage. The Hamilton Kerr Institute (HKI) is one of the world’s leading centres for teaching and research in conservation and heritage science.
With connectivity to the constituent departments of the Cambridge CHERISH (Cambridge Heritage Science Hub) and the Society and Identity theme of the ‘Collections-Connections-Communities’ Strategic Research Initiative, the Books and People Through Time project will analyse the material culture of the Founder’s Library collection at the Museum in the context of mid-eighteenth century collecting and the networks the books represent.
This pilot project will focus on the very start of Viscount Fitzwilliam’s collecting through to the end of his time as a student at Cambridge (1764) approximately 190 titles.
The assignment holder will work closely with the PI and Senior Curator of Manuscripts and Printed Books to analyse the intellectual and cultural content of the library in the early period and investigate contemporary University and College collections in Cambridge to expand the context of Fitzwilliam’s reading and collecting.
The ideal candidate should demonstrate experience in bibliographical/archival research, have knowledge of the culture of the long eighteenth century, be proficient in English and French, and have good working knowledge of spreadsheets and catalogues/collections databases. Knowledge of Latin would be beneficial. They should hold a PhD or have equivalent experience in the study of eighteenth-century culture. Attention to detail, good communication and interpersonal skills, and a flexible working style with a can-do attitude are essential.
The work will be based almost entirely in Cambridge, but some funding is available for research travel to London.
This assignment is advertised as full time, but part-time applications are welcome.
We believe that diversity strengthens and enriches us and are committed to helping to make the arts and cultural sector a more diverse and equal place.
LOCATION: The Fitzwilliam Museum and Cambridge University and College libraries as necessary. An element of hybrid working is acceptable, but with the understanding that this assignment will require a large element of working directly with collection materials on site.
Informal enquiries are welcomed: please email Edward Cheese on ejc67@cam.ac.uk
Click the ‘Apply’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Interviews for the role will be held: 5 October 2023
Please quote reference DA37992 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
TES has a responsibility to ensure that all workers are eligible to live and work in the UK. The assignment holder must undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.
Further information
DEPARTMENT/LOCATION
SALARY
£36,024-£44,263
REFERENCE
DA37992
CATEGORY
PUBLISHED
12 August 2023
CLOSING DATE
17 September 2023