Curator (Art) – External Relations – University of Birmingham, UK
Institution: University of Birmingham
Deadline: 24 November 2025
Location: Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
Contract: Full-time, fixed-term up to December 2026
Salary: £36,636–£46,049 (Grade 7) with potential progression to £48,822
The University of Birmingham seeks a Curator (Art) to manage and develop the campus art collection within University Collections, a university-wide museum without walls. The role involves curating and caring for artworks, supporting public engagement, enabling access, and collaborating across University departments and external partners. This position focuses on delivering high-quality displays, interpretation, exhibitions, and public programmes, while also overseeing loans, intellectual property, and budgets.
Key Responsibilities
- Curatorial oversight of historic, modern, and contemporary artworks across campus, including paintings, prints, sculpture, and installation art.
- Research, document, and disseminate knowledge on the University’s art collection.
- Develop innovative engagement programmes including exhibitions, artist residencies, and interpretation trails.
- Collaborate with University Collections team, Professional Services, Colleges, and external partners to ensure high standards of care, presentation, and accessibility.
- Manage institutional portrait commissions and provide expertise on acquisitions, disposals, and collection management.
- Oversee budgets, funding applications, and compliance with copyright and IP regulations.
Required Skills & Experience
- Degree-level education (or equivalent) plus relevant curatorial experience; postgraduate degree in art history, curating, or museum studies preferred.
- Significant experience in a curatorial role within a public sector/university museum or gallery.
- Strong knowledge of art history, museum standards, and best practice for collections care and public engagement.
- Experience in producing publications, managing volunteers, and handling budgets.
- Excellent communication, relationship management, and collaborative skills with internal and external stakeholders.
- Awareness of diversity, accessibility, and inclusion in cultural engagement.
