The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art, design and performance, and the custodian of an extraordinary and extensive collection spanning decorative and applied arts. It holds a collection of over 2.3 million objects that document 5,000 years of human creativity from across six continents. It holds many of UK’s designated National Collections, including sculpture, ceramics, metalwork, textiles and furniture, including extensive collections of prints, drawings, posters, photographs and portrait miniatures. It is also home to the National Art Library, which holds the UK’s most comprehensive public reference library for the fine and decorative arts, as well as special collections on the art of the book ranging from the Middle ages to the present day. The two photography galleries display a broad range of contemporary and historic photographs with a further four galleries and library, housing the Royal Photographic Society collection, currently being developed. Our collections keep growing with new galleries now dedicated to 20th-century and contemporary design.

As Conservation Scientist you will have the exciting opportunity to work in our newly-refurbished laboratory, where a AHRC £2.3 million grant has enabled the purchase and upgrade of a wide range of microscopes, spectrometers and X-radiography equipment. With experience in the analysis of materials from cultural heritage contexts, as Conservation Scientist you will undertake the analysis of organic, polymeric and modern materials (as well as other traditional materials where appropriate) in museum objects, using FTIR, UV-vis-nIR, optical microscopy, Raman microscopy and other appropriate techniques. Previous experience with and expertise in colour measurements and light sensitivity of materials is desirable.  You will undertake and support research enabling the delivery of the museum’s Public Programme and strategic objectives in care of collections and research. You will be active in publications, presentations, contribute to the V&A’s blog and public events.

Closing date for receipt of applications is 25 August 2021 at midnight.