Director of Scientific Research

Director of Scientific Research
Scientific Research
Full time
Permanent
Salary – Competitive
Ref 1478831

Can you help one of the world’s leading cultural institutions develop new strengths in scientific research? It’s an exciting challenge and this newly-created leadership role is your opportunity to take it on. You will be responsible for the Museum’s new scientific research strategy and develop an ambitious research programme to deliver it.

Founded in 1753, the British Museum’s remarkable collection spans over two million years of human history and culture. We have a strong legacy and an ambitious vision for scientific research. With our new state-of-the-art research laboratories at the World Conservation and Exhibitions Centre, you’ll have every opportunity to innovate. Here in the heart of a vibrant world city, you’ll collaborate with brilliant minds. Supported by the Wellcome Trust, we are looking to appoint a world-class leader to transform the Museum’s scientific research agenda as we develop a new focus in the science of organic artefacts and bio-archaeology. For the right candidate there will also be the opportunity to develop a close working relationship with the Francis Crick Institute.

If you are the forefront of your field, help us to lead and inspire the scientific research team, building the department’s worldwide reputation.

Person Specification:

The ideal candidate will have at minimum significant post-doctoral research experience, a track record of university or museum-based research in either the science of organic artefacts or bio-archaeology, and have experience of successfully applying for grants from major national and international funding-bodies. The successful post-holder will have experience developing and implementing strategies within a research-focussed environment, along with proven abilities to effectively handle large budgets. The ability to lead, develop and motivate a team is essential, as is the skill to effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.

About the British Museum:

Founded in 1753, the British Museum’s remarkable collection spans over two million years of human history and culture. With over 6.5 million visitors in 2014, the Museum is the top visitor attraction in the UK, and its world-famous collection includes the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies, the Admonitions Scroll, and the Amaravati sculptures.

The Museum is an equal opportunity employer, supports a diverse workplace and offers a competitive benefits package including:

• Membership of the civil service pension scheme
• Free entry to a wide range of museums and exhibitions
• Participate in private and public Museum activities, including talks by leading curators from around the world and behind-the-scenes opportunities to learn how museums care for and manage their extraordinary collections
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Interest-free season ticket loan
• Child care voucher scheme
• Professional & personal development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounts on food and gift shop purchases

If you are a positive individual, passionate about the Museum and would like to know more about this exciting opportunity, please visit the website for further information and details on how to apply. https://www.britishmuseum.org/about_us/jobs.aspx

Closing date 9 August 2015