About the Position
The University of Cambridge invites applications for a funded Collections Assistant position in Anthropology and Museum Studies at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA), located in Cambridge, United Kingdom. As part of the University of Cambridge Museums and Botanic Garden network, this role offers a unique opportunity to work with world-class anthropological and ethnographic collections that are internationally recognised for their cultural and historical significance. This exciting position focuses on anthropological collections management, ethnographic artefacts, cultural heritage preservation, and global museum research, contributing to high-impact international scholarship in Anthropology, Archaeology, and Social Anthropology.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively within the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, a leading research and teaching resource closely linked with the Departments of Social Anthropology and Archaeology. The role involves supporting collections care, enhancing research access, and contributing to international exhibitions and museum programmes. Moreover, the position includes managing artefacts, facilitating academic research visits, responding to research enquiries, and assisting with international museum loans, including administration, documentation, couriering, and installation of artefacts.
Applicants should demonstrate relevant experience working with museum collections, particularly ethnographic, archaeological, or world cultures collections. In addition, candidates must possess strong IT and data management skills, including experience with spreadsheets, word processing, and collections management systems.
This is a full-time, fixed-term research support position funded until 31 July 2027, starting in June 2026, offering a competitive salary between £27,319 and £31,236. The role provides valuable professional experience in museum-based research, collections management, international collaboration, and academic career development within one of the world’s leading universities.
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Program / Job Details
- Position: Collections Assistant in Anthropology
- Institution: University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department: Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
- Research Field: Anthropology and Museum Studies
- Supervisor: Rachel Hand
- Location: Cambridge
- Country: United Kingdom
- Job Type: Full-time / Assistant Staff / Fixed-term
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: June 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary / Funding: £27,319–£31,236 (funded)
- Required Degree / Diploma: Relevant degree in Anthropology, Museum Studies, or related field
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Research Area
The research project focuses on:
- Anthropological and ethnographic collections
- Museum collections management
- Artefact conservation and documentation
- International museum loans and exhibitions
- Cultural heritage and world cultures
- Research access and archival systems
- Collection-based research methodologies
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Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- Degree in Anthropology, Museum Studies, or related field
- Experience working with museum or archival collections
- Strong IT and data management skills
- Excellent communication and organisational abilities
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with ethnographic or world culture collections
- Knowledge of collections management systems
- Experience in inter-museum loans and exhibitions
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
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Key Responsibilities
- Support care and management of anthropological collections
- Assist with research enquiries and access to collections
- Facilitate research visits and collaborations
- Manage documentation and administrative processes
- Support international loans, transport, and installation of artefacts
Application Process
Submit your application through the official Cambridge recruitment system.
Required Documents:
- Online application form
- Updated CV / Resume
- Cover letter outlining relevant experience
- Details of previous museum or collections work
- Academic certificates or degree transcripts
- Supporting documents as requested in the portal
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 23 March 2026
- Application Deadline: 12 April 2026
- Interview Period: To be announced
- Expected Start Date: June 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Cambridge
- Department Information: Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
- Official Job Announcement: Collections Assistant in Anthropology
- Application Portal: Apply via the Cambridge recruitment system
📧 Contact for Queries
Email: hr@hsps.cam.ac.uk
This position offers an excellent opportunity for professionals seeking funded research support roles, international academic collaboration, and museum-based research experience at the University of Cambridge United Kingdom.
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