The University of Cambridge is recruiting a Research Associate in Archaeology and Heritage in Cambridge, UK. The full-time role also includes Exhibition Project Curator responsibilities for Between the Lines: Mapping Histories in the Margins. The exhibition is due to open at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) in 2029. The appointment is expected to begin in January 2027 and continue until 31 December 2029, with 37 hours of work per week, normally Monday to Friday.
The position focuses on South Asian history and archaeology, particularly the Survey of India and the history of archaeological research. Based at the MAA, the role is linked to the Mapping Archaeological Heritage in South Asia (MAHSA) project, hosted by the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research and funded by Arcadia. MAHSA uses historical maps, satellite imagery, machine learning and archaeological data to study and protect heritage across Pakistan and northwest India.
The role involves research using museum collections and published sources, developing exhibition content, preparing interpretation and contributing to the catalogue. It also includes public engagement, working with collections and loans, liaising with curators and community groups, and supporting exhibition delivery. The appointment comprises two 50% contracts covering research and academic-related work.
Applicants must hold a PhD or DPhil in anthropology, archaeology, history, art or material culture, with a specific focus on the history of South Asian archaeology and/or the Survey of India. They should also have experience of exhibitions, museum or archive collections, research projects and communicating with different audiences. The University requires academic expertise in South Asian history and/or archaeology, along with strong ICT and data-management skills. The ability to work effectively with colleagues and external partners is also important.
Position Details
- Position: Research Associate in Archaeology & Exhibition Project Curator
- Project: Between the Lines: Mapping Histories in the Margins
- Institution: University of Cambridge
- Department: Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology and Department of Archaeology
- Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Employment type: Full-time, fixed-term
- Contract: Two 50% contracts held in parallel
- Expected start: January 2027
- Salary: £37,694–£46,049
- Reference: JU51119
- Required Qualification: PhD/DPhil
Research Areas
The position covers research and curatorial work across several connected areas:
- South Asian archaeology
- South Asian history
- Archaeological heritage
- History of archaeological research
- History of the Survey of India
- Museum and archive collections
- Material culture
- Archaeological mapping
- Digital technologies and heritage
- Exhibition research and curation
- Community engagement and public history
Eligibility and Qualifications
Required qualifications and experience include:
- A PhD/DPhil in anthropology, archaeology, history, art or material culture, with a specific focus on the history of South Asian archaeology and/or the Survey of India.
- Proven academic expertise and research experience in South Asian history and archaeology, including the history of archaeological research in South Asia and/or the Survey of India.
- Experience working on museum exhibitions or gallery displays and delivering projects with clear objectives, deliverables and timelines.
- Experience using museum collections, archives and libraries as primary research sources, with knowledge of museum and archive documentation practices.
- Experience communicating research with different audiences and stakeholders through publications, online content, public events or other forms of engagement.
- Excellent ICT and data-management skills, including effective use of IT for collections, research and communication.
- A strong interest in the Museum of Archaeology & Anthropology (MAA) collections and willingness to develop knowledge beyond the applicant’s own academic specialism.
- Ability to build effective professional relationships and work collaboratively with academic, museum, library and gallery professionals, external contacts and wider audiences.
- Eligibility to live and work in the UK and willingness to meet the University’s required appointment and screening conditions.
Salary and Benefits
The Research Associate and Exhibition Project Curator position offers a salary of £37,694–£46,049 per annum for a full-time appointment of 37 hours per week. The fixed-term contract runs until 31 December 2029 and is subject to satisfactory completion of a six-month probationary period.
Key benefits include:
- Professional development through training, online learning, webinars and LinkedIn Learning.
- 41 days of annual paid leave, inclusive of public holidays.
- Automatic enrolment in the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS).
- Access to CAMbens benefits covering travel, relocation, accommodation, family support, health and wellbeing.
Key Responsibilities
The main responsibilities of the Research Associate and Exhibition Project Curator include:
- Research and develop the exhibition with the project team, drawing on MAA collections and loans from within the University and beyond.
- Devise, plan and conduct research to develop exhibition themes and content, including updating knowledge around the themes of the exhibition.
- Conduct collaborative research with key communities and liaise with internal and external curators and advisers.
- Write and produce interpretative materials, exhibition captions and associated publications, and contribute to the production and authorship of the exhibition catalogue.
- Lead, with the exhibition coordinator, the organisation and administration of the exhibition, including liaison with lenders and loans officers.
- Support collections management, display, storage, access, loans and the maintenance and updating of object records and collections databases.
Application Process
Candidates should apply online through the University recruitment system. The University advises applicants to consult the Further Particulars document for the complete role description, person specification and application requirements.
Required application materials:
- Completed online application through the University recruitment system
- Information requested through the online application
- Evidence addressing the requirements of the official person specification
- Any additional information requested in the recruitment system
Informal enquiries about the vacancy may be directed to Dr Mark Elliott, Senior Curator in Anthropology (MAA), at mje29@cam.ac.uk.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 18 September 2026
- Application Deadline: Sunday, 4 October 2026
- Interview Date: Tuesday, 3 November 2026
- Expected Start Date: January 2027
- Contract End Date: 31 December 2029
Eligible candidates should apply through the official University of Cambridge recruitment system before the closing date.
Further Information:
Further Particulars
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeology research opportunities
- Cultural Heritage research jobs
- Museum Studies academic positions
- History research opportunities
- Humanities research positions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Research Associate and Exhibition Project Curator position?
It is a full-time, fixed-term role supporting the MAHSA project and the Between the Lines: Mapping Histories in the Margins exhibition at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology.
Where is the position based?
The position is based at the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology and the Department of Archaeology at the University of Cambridge in Cambridge, UK.
When does the appointment start?
The successful candidate is expected to take up the appointment in January 2027.
What is the salary for this position?
The advertised salary is £37,694–£46,049.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 4 October 2026.
What is the reference number for the vacancy?
The official reference number is JU51119.
Institutional Overview
The University of Cambridge is a leading research and teaching institution in Cambridge, UK. Its academic work covers the humanities, social sciences, sciences and many other disciplines. The Department of Archaeology covers Archaeology, Biological Anthropology, Assyriology and Egyptology. It also includes the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research, Cambridge Archaeological Unit and Duckworth Laboratory. The Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) is an important resource for teaching and research, particularly in Archaeology and Social Anthropology. Its collections span nearly two million years of human history and prehistory across all inhabited continents. The collections are Designated for their national and international importance. The museum also develops temporary exhibitions, manages loans and works with researchers, communities and partner institutions.
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