Assistant Lecturer in Archaeological and Museum Conservation

Permanent - Full Time
Grade 6: - £27,116 - £33,309 per annum

Durham University invites applications of the role of Assistant Lecturer in Archaeological and Museum Conservation (permanent). This exciting role contributes to teaching on the Masters in Conservation of Archaeological and Museum Objects (primarily practical teaching and demonstration based in the lab) and provides support for the conservation program's small but growing commercial operations. It is an exciting time to join the conservation team as we are preparing for a major lab refurbishment and are creating a vibrant community of conservation PhD students.

The ideal candidate will be organized, practical and a team player who is able to respond to changing deadlines and new challenges with a flexible and enthusiastic manner. They will be an excellent communicator with a proven track record of engaging a diverse set of stakeholders in conservation projects and teaching. They will have experience working with a broad range of heritage materials and collection types (not all of which must be archaeological) and be able to deliver teaching sessions on a range of conservation techniques. Ideally, they will hold accredited professional status or demonstrate a clear intention to pursue accreditation. Conservation fieldwork experience is considered a plus.

As one of the UK's leading universities, Durham is an incredible place to define your career while enjoying a high-quality work/life balance. We are home to some of the most talented scholars and researchers from around the world who are tackling global issues and making a difference to people's lives. The University sits in a beautiful historic city, less than three hours north of London, and an hour and a half south of Edinburgh, where it shares ownership of a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Durham Cathedral. County Durham is a region steeped in history and natural beauty. The Durham Dales, including the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, are home to breath-taking scenery and attractions.

Essential Criteria

• Qualifications: a good first degree or Masters in Archaeology or a related subject and a Taught Postgraduate qualification in Archaeological or Museum Conservation (or equivalent experience).
• Experience of teaching conservation at any level (University to Continuing Professional Development) with positive student feedback.
• Good oral and written communication skills with the ability to engage with a range of students and colleagues across a variety of forums.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.
• Ability to work across a wide range of collection materials and types.

Desirable Criteria

• Accredited Conservator or actively pursuing accredited status.
• A full UK driving licence
• Experience of contributing to the development and delivery of high-quality teaching and/or assessment of learning, including the design and creation of successful learning environments and curricula.
• Demonstrable ability to participate in the collegial/administrative activities of an academic department and/or discipline.
• Interest in communicating treatment-related research, as evidenced through publications or outreach activities.
• Fellowship in the HEA, or the ability to attain the rank of Fellow of HEA within a 2-year interval of hire.
• Experience working in a commercial conservation laboratory.

Applicants are asked to apply electronically and to submit: a CV, a cover letter that details your experience, strengths and potential in the requirements set out above and a portfolio of 5-7 treatments or conservation activities that demonstrates the range of work undertaken to date.