The University of Cambridge houses significant collections from, and pertaining to, Africa, across its museums, libraries, archives, departments and other institutions. These include anthropological, art and archaeological collections; zoological, geological and botanical collections; books and manuscripts; maps, photographs and archives. The collections include items spanning deep prehistory to the present day, and records relating to the history of acquisition and research. Many of the collections were acquired within the context of British colonialism, and the University actively engages with countries and communities of origin to discuss the future of specific collections.
The Cambridge African Collections Futures Project, a new initiative funded by the University's Research & Collections Programme, aims to produce a high-level mapping of the collections. The Senior Curator will research and map collections to produce a report that sets out strategic priorities and opportunities, including identifying research partners in African research institutions. You will engage with diaspora communities in Cambridge to inform recommendations in the report, which will be the first University-wide mapping of the collections from, and relating to, Africa. The post-holder will also work collaboratively across the University of Cambridge, particularly with Cambridge University Libraries and University of Cambridge Museums, and the Collections-Connections-Communities Strategic Research Initiative.
You will have researched collections from or related to Africa, and have experience working on or collaborating with projects that involve different disciplines, forms of collections and networks of institutions, research collaborators and community partners.
We offer an encouraging and supportive environment, an attractive pension scheme and many employee benefits such as a shopping discounts scheme.
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 15 months in the first instance.
Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a basic disclosure (criminal records check) check and a security check.
Location: Cambridge
Closing date for applications: 19th February at 23:59 (GMT).
Interview Date: 10th March
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to HR@Fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk
If you have any queries regarding the application process please contact HR@Fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference DA35014 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
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