Project Assistant Curator (History & Archaeology)

National Museums Liverpool; Liverpool; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent cultural institution in Liverpool is looking for a Project Assistant Curator to join their curatorial team. The role involves conducting research on transatlantic slavery, interpreting collections for diverse audiences, and collaborating with design contractors for museum displays. Candidates should have experience in research and stakeholder engagement while respecting the sensitivities surrounding this significant historical subject. This position does not provide visa sponsorship for non-UK applicants.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in research related to history and archaeology.
• Ability to engage with diverse audiences and interpret collections.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the ISM Curatorial Team and the ISM redevelopment.
• Undertake self-led research concerning transatlantic slavery.
• Prepare labels and descriptions for new displays and liaise with design contractors.

Skills

Research skills

Interpretation of collections

Stakeholder engagement

Tools

Collections management software

Job description

Overview

The Vacancy

Our people are at the heart of National Museums Liverpool. We are looking for a Project Assistant Curator (History & Archaeology) to join the ISM Curatorial Team and contribute to the ISM redevelopment. You will work under the Project Curator (History & Archaeology) and undertake self-led research on the history, archaeology and legacies of transatlantic slavery. You will interpret collections for audiences, writing labels and object descriptions for new displays, and liaise with design contractors to help shape the content, look and feel of the redesigned museum.

Responsibilities

• Actively contribute to the ISM Curatorial Team and the ISM redevelopment.
• Report directly to the Project Curator (History & Archaeology).
• Undertake self-led research on the history, archaeology and legacies of transatlantic slavery.
• Interpret collections for audiences, writing labels and object descriptions for new displays.
• Liaise with design contractors to help shape content, look and feel of the redesigned museum.
• Be actively involved in community-engagement activities.
• Represent ISM at public events and respond to information requests from scholars, media organisations and members of the public.
• Use collections management software and play a hands-on role in acquisition and loan procedures.
• Demonstrate knowledge of, and respect for, sensitivities associated with the history and legacies of racial slavery. Work in a reflective manner and show care for collections and the people you work with.

Qualifications and Experience

The description outlines responsibilities and expectations but does not provide a detailed list of formal qualifications. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate experience and competencies related to the duties above, including research, interpretation of collections, stakeholder engagement and awareness of sensitivities surrounding racial slavery.

Recruitment Insight Event

Want to learn more about working with National Museums Liverpool? Join us on Tuesday 14 October 2025 from 17:00 - 18:00 for our online Recruitment Insight event. You’ll hear about our organisation, the work of our teams, and current job opportunities. You’ll meet some staff, learn about the recruiting process and have the opportunity to ask questions. The online event will be conducted via Microsoft Teams. When the time comes, simply click the link to join.

Additional Information

Disclosure and Barring Service Checks (DBS)

National Museums Liverpool carries out checks, at a level appropriate for each role, as part of our recruitment process. Checks are completed through the Disclosure and Barring Service, following a successful interview and conditional offer. Details of these checks are restricted to the People Team and not shared with recruiting managers. If you have questions about the DBS service please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-application-forms-guide-for-applicants.

Overseas Applications

National Museums Liverpool are not currently a sponsor organisation for those applying from outside of the UK. This means that we will be unable to sponsor applications for a work visa from those who live outside of the UK and do not currently hold the right to work. For more information on whether you need a visa to work in the UK please go to https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa.

The Company

The Company has experienced unprecedented growth over the past few years. We have a vast number of employees, and provide support to clients from all over the country.