Vacancy for Research Associate in Virtual Museum Curation at University of Glasgow

Digital Preservation Coalition; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research initiative seeks a Research Associate to contribute to the 'Museums in the Metaverse' project at the University of Glasgow. This role involves curation and research in Virtual Reality, enhancing digital cultural heritage practices, and promoting the project's strategic goals through collaboration and innovation.

Qualifications

• Experience in digital cultural heritage and immersive VR/XR environments.
• Strong analytical and documentation skills.
• Ability to present research effectively at various platforms.

Responsibilities

• Lead research on immersive VR/XR experiences aligned with project goals.
• Document findings and analyze data for reports and publications.
• Develop collaborations and oversee undergraduate student work.

Skills

Research Skills

Data Analysis

Communication

Project Management

Education

Relevant PhD or equivalent experience

Job description

Vacancy for Research Associate in Virtual Museum Curation at University of Glasgow

3 December 2023

Glasgow, Scotland

Fixed Term

Job Purpose

To contribute to the ‘Museums in the Metaverse’ (MiM) project working with PI Professor Neil McDonnell, focusing on the project’s Museology work package led by Co-Is Professor Maria Economou and Dr Pauline Mackay.

The successful candidate will liaise with the project’s cross-sector partners to research, prioritize, and establish the core functionality of the MiM platform. Responsibilities include assisting in the selection, curation, and interpretation of cultural heritage objects, experiences, and narratives in Virtual Reality.

They will support the development and testing of virtual curatorial workflows and tools for the MiM platform, and help develop sector-appropriate methods for object handling, documentation, archiving, and interpretation. The role involves working in a team to design, curate (in Virtual Reality), evaluate, and disseminate MiM experiences aligned with partners’ target audiences and strategic goals.

The candidate will also organize access to sites/objects for photogrammetric capture and processing, support the development and maintenance of the project database, and contribute to research publications and proposals. They will help manage and guide the project as opportunities allow.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

1. Lead in planning and conducting research related to immersive VR/XR experiences, in accordance with project goals and strategies.
2. Document research findings, analyze data, maintain records, and draft reports and publications.
3. Build and maintain a research profile and contribute to high-quality publications, enhancing the university's research impact.
4. Review relevant literature and standards in Digital Cultural Heritage, and develop research strategies accordingly.
5. Present research at conferences, seminars, and workshops to develop the research profile.
6. Identify funding opportunities and assist in proposal development.
7. Develop collaborations within the university and with external partners.
8. Participate actively in meetings, seminars, and project activities to promote knowledge sharing.
9. Supervise and mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students and less experienced team members.
10. Handle administrative tasks, including budgeting and expenditure.
11. Promote and demonstrate the MiM platform and immersive VR experiences.
12. Stay updated with advances in Digital Cultural Heritage, Virtual/Extended Reality, and immersive experience design.
13. Engage in personal and professional development.
14. Perform other duties as assigned by the Project Investigators.
15. Contribute to enhancing the university’s international reputation in line with its strategic plan.