Curator: Later China

British Museum

Salary: £35,165 per annum
Employment Type: Full-time, permanent (41 hours/week, including paid lunch break)
Application Deadline: February 18, 2025 (12 PM GMT)
Interviews: February 27, 2025

The British Museum is seeking a Curator of Later China to oversee the documentation, research, display, and development of its extensive Chinese collections. This role involves:

• Conducting object-based research and public engagement.
• Managing collections, acquisitions, conservation, and provenance research.
• Developing partnerships with institutions in London, the UK, and internationally, especially in China.
• Organizing exhibitions and displays that challenge existing narratives and promote new perspectives.
• Improving digital cataloguing and documentation of the collection.

The collection includes ceramics, glass, lacquer, ivory, cloisonné, metalwork, textiles, basketry, and weapons, as well as Chinese objects transferred from the former Ethnography Department.

Requirements

• BA/BSc or MA in Chinese Art, Archaeology, Art History, or Material Culture.
• Fluent English and Mandarin Chinese (written and spoken).
• Proven research and publication experience.
• Experience in museum collections, exhibition planning, and provenance research.
• Strong project management and collaboration skills, including work with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in using digital and social media for research and engagement is desirable.

Benefits

• 25 days of annual leave (rising to 30 days after 10 years), plus 2.5 privilege days & bank holidays.
• Civil Service pension scheme.
• Free access to museums and exhibitions.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Interest-free loans for travel, bicycles, and rental deposits.
• Employee Assistance Programme.

Application Timeline

• Deadline: February 18, 2025 (12 PM GMT)
• Interview Date: February 27, 2025
• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship may be possible for eligible roles).