Vacancy for Project Archivist at Cambridge University Library

Digital Preservation Coalition; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The Digital Preservation Coalition is seeking a Project Archivist for a full-time, fixed-term role at Cambridge University Library. This position involves cataloguing the Stephen Hawking Archive for research access, requiring substantial archival experience and a relevant undergraduate degree. Ideal candidates will have knowledge of archival standards and experience with archive management systems.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience cataloguing archives to professional standards.
• Experience working in a library or similar environment.
• Knowledge of modern science archives and born-digital archives is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Arrange, describe, audit the condition, and review the Stephen Hawking Archive.
• Generate a catalogue of the archive for research access.
• Support inquiries about the archive and contribute to departmental work.

Skills

Archival cataloguing standards

Research skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

Undergraduate degree

Tools

ArchivesSpace

Archive management systems

Job description

Vacancy for Project Archivist at Cambridge University Library

Date: 9 July 2021

Location: Cambridge

Contract: Fixed Term

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Archivist to catalogue and prepare the Stephen Hawking Archive for research access. The archive was recently allocated to Cambridge University Library under the Acceptance in Lieu scheme. Further details about the acquisition are available here.

Working in the Department of Archives and Modern Manuscripts, reporting to the Keeper of Archives and Modern Manuscripts, the role is a full-time, fixed-term appointment for 2 years. Responsibilities include arranging, describing, auditing the physical condition, rehousing, and reviewing the archive to identify and manage personal, including special category, information. The main output will be a catalogue of the archive following international and local standards for archival description, generated using the Archive Management System, ArchivesSpace, and published on the online discovery platform, ArchiveSearch. The collection will then be made available to researchers in the Manuscripts Reading Room. The role will also support inquiries about the archive and contribute to the work of the department as required.

The successful applicant will demonstrate substantial experience cataloguing archives to professional standards, working in a library or similar environment, and supporting stakeholders including colleagues, donors, and researchers. They will have proficient knowledge of archival cataloguing standards, excellent research and analytical skills, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills. A relevant undergraduate degree is required.

Preferred candidates will have experience using archive management systems, cataloguing modern science archives, working with born-digital archives, and cataloguing library materials. An interest or knowledge in post-War and contemporary science, library cataloguing standards, and a postgraduate qualification in archive management is desirable.