Assistant Conservator (Manuscripts & Printed Books) at Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
About Position/Job
Join the prestigious Fitzwilliam Museum, the principal museum of the University of Cambridge, as an Assistant Conservator focusing on the preservation of rare manuscripts and printed books. This fixed-term, full-time role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the long-term conservation of internationally significant collections. You will work within a highly skilled conservation team at the Hamilton Kerr Institute, a global leader in paintings and heritage conservation research. This role is critical for supporting academic research, exhibitions, and cultural heritage preservation at one of the world’s most renowned museums.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Assistant Conservator (Manuscripts & Printed Books)
- Institution: University of Cambridge
- Department: Fitzwilliam Museum, Hamilton Kerr Institute
- Research Field: Conservation Science, Cultural Heritage Preservation
- Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-Time, Fixed-Term (1 Year, renewable)
- Start Date (Anticipated): 2025
- Working Hours: 36.5 hours per week
- Salary Range: £32,546 – £35,116 per annum
- Required Degree/Diploma: Conservation
Research Area
- Conservation of medieval and Renaissance manuscripts
- Treatment of printed books spanning 15th to 21st centuries
- Preservation of archival materials, music manuscripts, and literary autographs
- Preventive conservation techniques and heritage science
- Collaborative conservation projects with Trinity College, Cambridge
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Degree or professional qualification in conservation or a related discipline
- Proven experience in complex book and manuscript conservation treatments
- Ability to work with paper, parchment, and bindings at the highest standards
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively in a small team
- Excellent communication skills and a flexible, proactive approach
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with historic and non-western manuscripts
- Familiarity with heritage science research and documentation
- Previous experience in a museum or academic conservation environment
Key Responsibilities
- Undertake interventive conservation treatments on manuscripts and printed books
- Provide expert preservation advice and handling guidelines
- Maintain thorough conservation records and documentation
- Contribute to research projects and exhibitions related to conservation
- Support the delivery of commercial conservation services to Trinity College under supervision
Application Process
How to Apply:
Apply online through the University of Cambridge recruitment portal. Create an account and submit your application quoting reference DA46014.
Required Documents:
- CV/Resume
- Cover Letter explaining suitability for the role
- References (if requested)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 16 May 2025
- Application Deadline: 8 June 2025
- Interview Date: 16 July 2025
Useful Links
- Institution Website: About us – Job Opportunities – University of Cambridge
- Job Posting: Click here
- Apply Now: Application Portal
