The Rosalinde & Arthur Gilbert Collection, V&A Museum, London, UK
Position Type: Fixed-term (12 months)
Working Hours: Full-time (36 hours per week)
Salary: £27,528 – £31,854 per annum
Location: South Kensington, London
About the Role
The V&A Museum is seeking a Research Assistant to support the expansion and redesign of the Rosalinde & Arthur Gilbert Collection galleries, scheduled for delivery in March 2026. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a high-profile capital project in one of the world’s leading museums.
Key Responsibilities
Research & Development
- Conduct research on objects, archives, and subject areas relevant to the gallery project.
- Contribute to object labels and interpretative content, including digital and audiovisual components.
- Undertake picture research and manage permissions and copyrights for contextual images and audiovisual materials.
Project Coordination
- Maintain project records, including object lists and digital archives.
- Administer and support the commissioning of films and development of interactive gallery materials.
- Collaborate with project designers and curatorial teams on 3D, 2D, lighting, and audiovisual aspects of the galleries.
Collaboration
- Attend project meetings and provide input on curatorial reviews.
- Liaise with academic partners and external organizations to develop research partnerships and study days.
- Work closely with the Rights Clearance Manager and Interpretation Producer on all aspects of the project.
Candidate Requirements
Essential:
- Experience in research and delivering projects such as exhibitions or comparable events.
- Strong administrative and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Keen interest in the Gilbert Collection fields, including silver, gold boxes, enamel portraits, mosaics, and Nazi-looted art.
- Excellent collaborative skills and respect for diverse perspectives.
Desirable:
- Knowledge of collections management procedures.
- Experience handling museum objects.
Benefits
The V&A Museum offers a range of benefits, including:
- Holiday: 29 days per year plus bank holidays.
- Pension: Up to 10% employer contribution.
- Free Museum Access: Complimentary tickets for V&A exhibitions and free entry to major museums.
- Discounts: 25% off V&A shop purchases and discounts in cafes.
- Professional Development: Extensive training opportunities.
- Additional Perks: Subsidized canteen, cycle-to-work scheme, interest-free loans for season tickets and rental deposits, and more.