Conservation Technician

The Natural History Museum is one of the world’s leading museums, internationally recognised for its dual role as a centre of excellence in scientific research and as a leader in the presentation of natural history through exhibitions, public programmes, publications and the web.

Our Conservation Centre has a great opportunity to work in our Airless project team, which aims to carry out preventive conservation techniques to protect palaeontological specimens held at the Natural History Museum which are considered to be at highest risk from pyrite oxidation. This includes specimens from all areas of the collection, from brachiopods to ichthyosaurs.

Working as part of a team, the successful candidate will transport specimens from the storage area, undertake remedial treatment if required and re-house the specimens in individual anoxic enclosures. This will involve handling very delicate, as well as large, heavy specimens. We are looking for self-motivated individuals who show a high degree of manual dexterity and attention to detail, and have the ability to maintain focus and accuracy. Training will be given for specialised treatments.

The data produced by this project will also contribute to future digitisation projects undertaken by the curatorial staff.   

The successful candidates will have an interest in museum conservation and palaeontology, and either a BSc or equivalent degree in Conservation or Earth Sciences, or who has proven experience in working in a similar voluntary or paid position with natural history specimens. You will have a working knowledge of Excel software and digital imaging processes, and can follow complex instructions and remain focussed when completing repetitive tasks.

A full role description is available on the Museums website with comprehensive details of the role and the package on offer.