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The Department of Scientific Research at the British Museum is seeking to appoint a research assistant (RA) with expertise in molecular analysis of organic materials for a period of 12 months. The RA will join a new interdisciplinary research project which brings together curators, scientists and conservators to undertake a major study of the ancient Egyptian animal mummies curated at the British Museum and improve their analysis, documentation, interpretation and conservation.
The post will focus on a detailed investigation of the chemical composition of organic substances associated with the mummies, such as embalming materials, anointing fluids or other kinds of treatment. The data generated will contribute to a forthcoming British Museum exhibition in 2026, as well as leading to academic publications and wider outreach and engagement activities.
Key areas of responsibility
- To undertake laboratory work for the extraction and analysis of organic substances from ancient Egyptian animal mummies using GC-MS, pyrolysis-GC-MS, and other analytical techniques, such as FTIR and microscopy, as required by the demands of the project.
- To adhere to best practice and established protocols within the BM’s facilities for organic analysis, including data management policies and laboratory health and safety.
- To analyse, synthesize and interpret the data acquired and produce high quality reports including graphical presentation and statistical analysis as appropriate.
- To maintain full records of all samples via the project database
About you
- BA/BSc (or equivalent) in a relevant science subject.
- Experience in the analysis of organic materials, especially natural products, using technologies such as GC-MS, pyrolysis-GC-MS and FTIR.
- Working in a university department, analytical laboratory, museum or cultural heritage related environment.
- Good problem solving and organisational capabilities with some experience of supervision/training and project management.
- Track record of research into the organic analysis of objects in museum collections or other cultural heritage contexts. (Desirable)
- Experience in managing projects and data. (Desirable)
About the British Museum
Founded in 1753, the British Museum’s remarkable collection spans over two million years of human history and culture. The Museum is a leading visitor attraction, and its world-famous collection includes the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, the Sutton-Hoo finds, and the Lewis Chessmen. The Museum also holds an extensive collection of prints and drawings spanning 600 years, including works by the greatest graphic artists Dürer, Michelangelo and Rembrandt.
You can view a selection of our impressive collection of prints and drawings in our virtual gallery.
The Museum offers a competitive benefits package including
- Generous annual leave allowance of 25 days (rising to 30 days after 10 years’ service) plus 2.5 privilege days and plus bank holidays.
- Membership of the civil service defined benefit pension scheme (find out here what benefits a civil service pension provides).
- Free entry to a wide range of museums and exhibitions
- Participation 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.
- Interest-free travel, bicycle, and rental deposit loans
- Professional and personal development opportunities
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounts on food and gift shop purchases
