Curatorial Research Assistant
Bodleian Public Engagement delivers audience-focused programming to engage diverse audiences with University research and collections. The Bodleian Libraries are looking for a Curatorial Research Assistant to join a friendly and creative project team which is preparing an exhibition to explore the work of John le Carré (real name David Cornwell) who chose the Bodleian as the repository for the bulk of his literary manuscripts.
Reporting to the Head of Public Engagement, the post-holder will work closely with the lead exhibition curator, Professor Federico Varese, Professor of Criminology and Associate Senior Research Fellow, University of Oxford, to select material and prepare content for an exhibition which will open in the Weston Library, Oxford in October 2025.
You will research the Bodleian manuscript and print collections to produce a detailed checklist of exhibits while contributing ideas for the overall exhibition narrative and arrangement of the exhibits. You will draft exhibition text appropriate for intended audiences and agreed project outcomes. You will collaborate in the preparation of press releases and other supporting materials and be willing to present project to staff, journalists and members of the public as required. You will be a source of information and advice to other members of the group on exhibition content and narrative.
Work will be primarily on-site in the Weston Library, Broad Street, although remote working may also be possible at times.
This is a temporary, part-time post, working 18.75 hours per week until October 2025
About You
- The successful candidate will have enthusiasm for, and familiarity with, Library collections, including manuscripts, which will allow you to work effectively to produce the key outcomes.
- You’ll be able to manage your own research and associated activities
- You’ll have previous experience of contributing to publications/presentations for non-specialist audiences
- You’ll be able to contribute ideas to develop a compelling exhibition narrative and combine this with excellent communication skills, including the ability to write for non-specialist audience.
As an employer, the University of Oxford genuinely cares about employees wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that they offer including:
• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days of annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
More information is available at https://hr.admin.ox.ac.uk/staff-benefits
Diversity
The University of Oxford’s staff and students come from all over the world, and they proudly promote a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through diverse groups and champions, as well as a number of family-friendly policies, such as the right to apply for flexible working and support for staff returning from periods of extended absence, for example, shared parental leave.
How to apply
You will be required to upload your CV and a supporting statement as part of your online application. Your supporting statement should list each of the essential and desirable selection criteria, as listed in the job description, and explain how you meet each one. CVs alone will not be considered.
The University aims to provide a supportive working environment. The Chair of this recruitment panel will be Madeline Slaven, Head of Public Engagement, who can be contacted with enquiries relating to the role (madeline.slaven@bodleian.ox.ac.uk). General queries about the recruitment and application process should be directed to the Recruitment team within the Human Resources department (recruitment@glam.ox.ac.uk).
Only applications received online by 12.00 midday (BST/GMT) on Monday 15 July 2024 can be considered. Interviews are expected to take place on 24th and 25th July 2024.
