Research Assistant, Japan Gallery (24-month contract)

royalontariomuseum; Toronto; On-site; CAD 63,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits coverage

Employer pension plan

ROM membership

Discounts to attractions ( Attractions

Ontario

Job summary

The Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto invites applications for a Research Assistant – Japan Gallery to support the development of the Prince Takamado Gallery of Japan, planned for 2028. This two-year, full-time contract reports to the Chief Curator and collaborates with the Japan Art and Culture team.

You will conduct collections research, help identify acquisitions and loans, develop narratives, maintain documentation in TMS, and contribute to publications and programs as part of ROM’s gallery

Qualifications

• Demonstrated research and analytical skills in art history or related fields.
• Experience in a museum curatorial environment is required.
• Proficiency in reading and writing Japanese is essential.

Responsibilities

• Conduct collections-based research on Japanese artworks and artifacts.
• Identify potential acquisitions and loans supporting gallery objectives.
• Collaborate on developing narratives and approaches for presenting Japanese art.
• Contribute research and content to gallery development, publications, and programs.
• Maintain accurate collections documentation in ROM’s CMS (TMS).
• Participate in cross-functional Japan Gallery development meetings.
• Support community consultation and engagement with advisory groups.
• Collaborate with curators across ROM to advance project priorities.

Skills

Art History

Museum Studies

Japanese language

Research skills

Curatorial experience

TMS documentation

Communication

Collaboration

Time management

Education

Bachelor's in Art History or related field

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

TMS

Digitization software

Job description

WHO WE ARE

Opened in 1914 and welcoming over 1.3 million visitors annually, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada's most-visited museum, ranking among the top 10 cultural institutions in North America. At ROM, we are dedicated to building and sharing global collections, sharing knowledge, inspiring learning, and fostering community engagement. As a globally recognized field research institute, ROM houses an impressive collection of over 18 million artworks, cultural objects, and natural history specimens, showcased in over 40 galleries and exhibition spaces. We are committed to creating a space where art, culture, and nature intersect, connecting people and communities to the past, present and shared future.

As we continue to work toward our goals to transform and evolve as one of the world’s foremost 21st-century museums, we seek passionate and dynamic team members who embody our mission and values.

WHO WE NEED

We are seeking a Research Assistant – Japan Gallery for a two-year, full-time contract to support the development of the Prince Takamado Gallery of Japan, planned for 2028.

Reporting to the Chief Curator, Art and Culture and working closely with the Bishop White Committee Curator of Japanese Art and Culture, you will contribute to the research and development of the new gallery while supporting related publications, exhibitions, programs, acquisitions, and loans.

You will research artworks and artifacts within ROM’s collection, contribute to the development of new narratives and approaches to presenting Japanese art and culture, maintain collections documentation, and participate in consultation and collaboration with colleagues and communities. This is an exciting opportunity for an emerging museum professional with expertise in Japanese art and culture to contribute directly to a major gallery development project.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

• Conduct collections-based research on Japanese artworks and artifacts being considered for inclusion in the new gallery
• Research and help identify potential acquisitions and loans that support the gallery’s interpretive and collections objectives
• Collaborate in developing narratives, methodologies, and approaches for understanding and presenting Japanese art and culture in a museum setting
• Contribute research and content to gallery development, publications, exhibitions, programs, and related initiatives
• Maintain accurate collections documentation and data within ROM’s collections management system (TMS)
• Participate in cross-functional Japan Gallery development meetings and contribute research expertise throughout the project
• Support community consultation and engagement with advisory groups as part of the gallery development process
• Collaborate with curators and colleagues across ROM to advance project priorities, milestones, and deliverables

WHAT YOU BRING

• Academic training in Art History, History, Anthropology, Museum Studies, or a related field relevant to Japanese art and culture
• Experience working within a museum curatorial environment
• Demonstrated research and analytical skills, including the ability to conduct detailed collections-based research
• Proficiency in reading and writing Japanese
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate research clearly to different audiences
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage priorities and meet project deadlines
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a diverse, cross-functional team
• Familiarity with museum collections databases such as TMS, digitization practices, and related software is an asset

WHAT WE OFFER

• Comprehensive benefits coverage: For permanent and full-time contract positions (conditions apply), enjoy 100 percent premium-free benefits for individuals and families, a health spending account, flexible working options (varies by position), and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Worry‑free retirement savings: With our optional pension plan, you benefit from an employer‑matched Defined Benefit contribution plan, which provides predictable lifetime retirement income, survivor benefits, and early retirement options without the stress of investment decisions.
• Perks: Free ROM membership for permanent full-time and part-time staff, plus discounts to over 200 attractions through Attractions Ontario.
• And more!

SALARY & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

• START DATE: October 2026
• OPEN DATE: September 16, 2026
• CLOSE DATE: Open until filled
• STATUS: Full-time Contract
• EMPLOYEE GROUP: OPSEU Local 543
• EXPECTED COMPENSATION: $62,828 - $71,803
• SCHEDULE: 35 hours weekly
• PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Six (6) months
• LOCATION (onsite): Toronto, ON

WHAT TO EXPECT IN OUR INTERVIEW PROCESS

1. Initial conversation: A 30‑minute virtual conversation with a Recruiter to discuss your interest in the role and ROM and how you can make an impact.
2. First interview: A 1‑hour in‑person or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and a member of the HR team. This in‑depth interview will focus on your skills and how they align with the team’s and ROM’s needs.
3. Second interview: A 1‑hour in‑person meeting with the Hiring Manager and relevant team members. You may be asked to present a pre‑assigned case study and discuss scenarios relevant to your role. Depending on the position, you might also be given a tour of ROM and receive a preview of your responsibilities and interactions.

The above‑listed process may change or vary based on the nature and scope of the position.

All virtual conversations and interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams and may be recorded.

WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE ROM

• Cultural engagement: Daily interactions with Toronto's diverse culture and international visitors offer insights into social and cultural trends. We champion inclusive community programs and connections through diverse experiences.
• Continuous learning: At ROM, expertise and continuous skill development are paramount. Our culture of curiosity and open‑mindedness fosters growth beyond traditional career paths.
• Passion & fulfillment: Our work in preserving and curating cultural narratives brings deep satisfaction. We are passionate about the arts, global history, cultural diversity, and leveraging digital technologies to enhance accessibility.
• Team & culture: ROM promotes a positive workplace with collaborative, supportive teams that encourage creativity and innovation. We value new ideas and collective problem‑solving.
• Academic collaboration: We are committed to education, partnering with universities and providing student resources, underscoring our dedication to research and accessibility.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & ACCESSIBILITY

At ROM, we embrace diversity in our exhibits, communities, and teams. We encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and those who can further diversify our ideas. We are committed to equitable employment opportunities and a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

We welcome and accommodate candidates with disabilities throughout the selection process. Please contact us at [e-mail] for assistance.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• ROM does not require “Canadian experience.” International applicants with equivalent experience are encouraged to apply.
• ROM uses technology‑assisted tools (including JazzHR TalentFit) to support the review and screening of applications. All hiring decisions are made by human reviewers.
• This posting is for an existing vacancy.