Organizer Information

Lancaster Arts is a distinctive combined-arts organization based at Lancaster University in the Northwest of England. As an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation (NPO), it operates across several venues including the Peter Scott Gallery, the Nuffield Theatre, and the Great Hall. The organization is renowned for supporting cutting-edge contemporary practice, interdisciplinary research, and civic engagement, connecting the university with diverse regional and international communities.

Description

This pivotal role sits at the heart of Lancaster Arts’ artistic program. The Curator is responsible for the vision and delivery of the visual arts offer, including exhibitions at the Peter Scott Gallery, campus-wide commissions, and projects within the cities of Lancaster and Morecambe. Working closely with the Director, the Curator helps shape the annual thematic program across all art forms, manages the University Art Collection, and ensures the organization’s commitments as an Accredited Museum are maintained.

Category

Curatorial / Visual Arts Management

Eligibility

  • Open to professionals with significant experience in curating contemporary visual arts and managing museum collections.
  • Applicants must demonstrate a track record of collaborative practice and the ability to build partnerships across sectors (academic, civic, and artistic).
  • Lancaster Arts particularly welcomes applicants with lived experience of disability and individuals from groups currently under-represented in the arts sector.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Salary: £39,906 to £46,049 per annum.
  • Contract: Full-time, fixed-term for 12 months.
  • Professional Growth: Membership in the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and management experience overseeing the creative team.
  • Interview Support: For shortlisted candidates, Lancaster Arts provides and pays for on-campus accommodation for the duration of the two-day interview process.

Application Fee

There is no fee to apply.

Application Requirements

  • Online Application: Must be completed via the Lancaster University recruitment portal.
  • Cover Letter: Outlining your specific interest in the role and how your experience aligns with the job description.
  • CV/Supporting Statement: Detailing experience with collection management software (e.g., Modes), financial budgeting, and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the Lancaster University HR portal: https://hr-jobs.lancs.ac.uk/.

Key Dates

  • Closing Date: Sunday, 17 May 2026.
  • Interview Dates: Thursday, 04 June and Friday, 05 June 2026 (a two-day process).
  • Notification: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted following the closing date.

Location

Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK (Lancaster University Campus).

Additional Details

The Curator oversees the Peter Scott Gallery Charitable Trust and is responsible for the University’s Art Collection Accreditation (due for renewal in 2029). The role requires a high degree of relational skill to work with faculty, facilities, and regional partners like Museum Development North West. Candidates should be prepared for a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment where administrative and creative duties are integrated.

Contact Information