Curatorial Research Assistant - 12 months contract

PERSOL SINGAPORE PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 20,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An international exhibition organization based in Singapore is seeking a Curatorial Research Assistant to support the development of a major exhibition on Buddhist art from the Mogao Grottoes. The role requires proficiency in English and Chinese, and involves conducting research, assisting in exhibition preparations, and collaborating with various partners. A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required. Salary ranges from S$3,000 to S$3,500 per month.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in both English and Chinese required for research.
• Interest or experience in Chinese/Buddhist art and culture.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work independently.

Responsibilities

• Conduct scholarly research on Buddhist art and cultural history.
• Assist in preparation of exhibition texts and materials.
• Support curatorial documentation and coordinate with external partners.
• Contribute to exhibition narratives and organization of events.

Skills

Research skills

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Bilingual (English and Chinese)

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Art, History, or related field

Job description

The Curatorial Research Assistant will work closely with the Curatorial Department to support the development of a major exhibition on art and artefacts from the Mogao Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Dunhuang, China. Scheduled to open in September 2026, the exhibition will explore how Buddhist art and ideas travelled across Asia, influencing diverse artistic traditions.

This position offers a valuable opportunity to contribute to the research, planning, and presentation of a large-scale international exhibition.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct scholarly research on Buddhist art and cultural history from the Mogao Grottoes and related regions using materials in both English and Chinese.
• Assist in the preparation of exhibition texts, labels, catalogues, and bibliographic materials.
• Support curatorial documentation, including maintaining object lists, image copyrights, and administrative records.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners, such as designers, institutions, and vendors.
• Contribute to the development of exhibition narratives, layouts, and multimedia components.
• Assist in organizing lectures, educational programs, and other related events.
• Perform other duties related to exhibition and curatorial work as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Art, History, Anthropology, Museum/Curatorial Studies, Buddhist Studies, humanities or a related discipline.
• Proficiency in both English and Chinese — this is required as the role involves researching and referencing primary and secondary sources written in Chinese, as well as liaising with partner institutions and scholars from Chinese-speaking regions.
• Demonstrated interest or experience in Chinese and/or Buddhist art and culture.
• Excellent organizational, project management, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.

Salary Range: S$ 3,000.00– 3,500.00 per month

Location: Town

We regret to inform that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Interested candidates, please forward your resume to [e-mail]

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