Organizer Information
The opportunity is hosted by the British Museum, one of the world’s most significant cultural and research institutions, founded in 1753. The museum holds a globally important collection spanning human history, art, and archaeology, and operates as both a public-facing exhibition space and a major research institution. Its Department of Britain, Europe & Prehistory is responsible for curating and interpreting archaeological material from across Europe and the British Isles, contributing to international scholarship and public engagement.
The institution is currently undergoing a large-scale institutional transformation (“Masterplan”), which includes major gallery redisplays, digital infrastructure expansion, and new interpretive frameworks designed to make its collections more accessible, inclusive, and globally relevant.
Title & Description
Curator: European Deep History (6,000–800 BCE)
This is a senior curatorial position focused on European prehistoric material culture dating from approximately 6000–800 BCE. The role centres on the stewardship, research, interpretation, and public dissemination of archaeological collections, including lithics, ceramics, organic remains, and metal artefacts.
The curator will play a leading role in shaping scholarly narratives around European deep history, ensuring that collections are not only preserved and documented to the highest academic standards but also interpreted in ways that engage global audiences. A major component of the role involves contributing to gallery redisplays, digital transformation of collections, and the development of innovative research frameworks that connect archaeological evidence with contemporary museum practices.
This is a hybrid position combining research leadership, curatorial responsibility, public engagement, and strategic collection development at one of the world’s most prestigious museums.
The Role Overview
- Position Type: Permanent, Full-time
- Working Hours: 41 hours per week
- Salary: £44,719 per annum
- Contract Type: Permanent employment
- Working Pattern: Full-time, hybrid working
- Hybrid Requirement: Minimum 3 days per week on-site in Bloomsbury, London
- Reporting Structure: Within the Department of Britain, Europe & Prehistory
- Institutional Context: Part of the British Museum Masterplan transformation programme
- Work Focus: Research leadership, collections management, exhibition development, and academic collaboration
Position & Tasks
- Lead research and interpretation of European Deep History collections (6000–800 BCE)
- Manage documentation and large-scale digitisation programmes across multiple museum sites (London and Shenfield near Reading)
- Contribute to major gallery redisplay projects as part of institutional transformation
- Initiate and secure external research funding and academic partnerships
- Supervise and mentor curatorial, research, and digitisation staff
- Advice on acquisitions, loans, and statutory responsibilities (including Treasure cases and export licences)
- Develop exhibitions, publications, and public engagement programmes
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams across archaeology, conservation, and digital heritage
- Strengthen global accessibility and interpretation of prehistoric European collections
Categories
- Archaeology
- Museum Studies
- Cultural Heritage
- Material Culture
- Curatorial Practice
- Digital Heritage
- European Prehistory
- Public History / Exhibition Design
Eligibility
- Open to international applicants (subject to UK visa eligibility requirements)
- PhD in Archaeology (completed or in progress, desirable)
- Established academic or professional reputation in European archaeology (6000–800 BCE focus)
- Strong publication record in relevant fields
- Experience in museum curation, archaeological research, or academic teaching
- Proven experience in exhibitions, research projects, or public engagement
- Strong English communication skills required
- Knowledge of an additional European language is desirable
- Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary and institutional environments
- Leadership experience in research or curatorial teams is preferred
Program Benefits
- Competitive annual salary (£44,719)
- Civil Service Pension Scheme (defined benefit, inflation-linked)
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays + 2.5 privilege days (increasing with tenure)
- Free museum and exhibition access for staff and guests
- International museum network access (ICOM and reciprocal institutions)
- Professional development programmes, mentoring, and training opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme (mental health and wellbeing support)
- Enhanced parental leave policies
- Inclusion and diversity support networks
- Opportunity to work within a globally leading museum undergoing major transformation
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- CV outlining academic and professional experience
- Cover letter addressing relevant expertise and motivation
- Evidence of research output (publications, reports, or equivalent)
- Portfolio of curatorial, exhibition, or research projects (if applicable)
- References may be requested during later stages
- Proof of eligibility to work in the UK (if applicable)
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 15 July 2026
- Contract Status: Permanent appointment
Location
Bloomsbury, London, United Kingdom
Additional Details
This role is part of a major institutional transformation initiative (“Masterplan”) aimed at redefining how one of the world’s largest museum collections is researched, digitised, and presented. Candidates are expected to demonstrate alignment with institutional values such as intellectual curiosity, inclusivity, and innovation in cultural interpretation.
The museum emphasizes a values-driven recruitment approach, focusing on collaboration, openness to experimentation, and engagement with diverse audiences. Security screening (BPSS) is required prior to employment.
Visa sponsorship may be available depending on eligibility and role requirements.