Located in the heart of Oxford, the Ashmolean Museum is not only a treasure trove of art and archaeology but also a vibrant center of employment for professionals with a passion for history, culture, and education. Working at the Ashmolean is more than just a job it’s an opportunity to be part of an institution that has been shaping knowledge and public engagement for centuries. From curatorial and academic positions to visitor services and administration, the variety of jobs at the Ashmolean Museum reflects its multifaceted operations and broad mission.
Overview of the Ashmolean Museum
The Ashmolean Museum, founded in 1683, is the University of Oxford’s museum of art and archaeology. As the first university museum in the world, it houses priceless collections ranging from ancient Egypt to contemporary art. The museum is deeply committed to research, conservation, and education, and this dedication is evident in its hiring practices and staff diversity. Jobs at the Ashmolean attract professionals from many different backgrounds who are passionate about making history accessible and engaging to the public.
Types of Jobs Available
Curatorial and Research Roles
Curators at the Ashmolean are responsible for managing, interpreting, and expanding the museum’s collections. These professionals usually have advanced degrees in art history, archaeology, or related disciplines. Research plays a central role in these jobs, and staff often publish scholarly topics, lead exhibitions, and collaborate with universities worldwide.
- Curator of Antiquities– Manages ancient collections and develops exhibitions.
- Assistant Curator– Supports senior curators with research and documentation.
- Research Associate– Conducts academic research projects linked to specific artifacts or collections.
Education and Public Engagement
Outreach and education staff focus on making the museum’s offerings accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. They develop school programs, public lectures, and interactive workshops. Many of these roles require teaching experience or a background in museum studies or educational program development.
- Learning Officer– Designs and delivers educational content for school visits and community groups.
- Public Engagement Coordinator– Creates events and programs that connect the public with the museum’s collections.
- Gallery Educator– Facilitates tours and hands-on learning experiences.
Visitor Services and Front-of-House
Jobs in visitor services are ideal for those with excellent interpersonal skills and a strong interest in arts and culture. These roles ensure that every visitor has a welcoming and enriching experience. They include everything from ticketing and retail to floor management and security.
- Visitor Experience Assistant– Welcomes guests and provides information about exhibits.
- Museum Security Officer– Ensures the safety of visitors and the protection of collections.
- Retail Assistant– Works in the museum shop, offering unique products tied to current exhibitions.
Conservation and Collections Management
Behind the scenes, conservation experts and collections managers preserve the museum’s valuable artifacts. These roles require meticulous attention to detail and specialized training in conservation techniques or collection care.
- Conservator– Uses scientific and artistic methods to restore and maintain objects.
- Collections Manager– Maintains records and ensures the physical care of items in storage and on display.
- Exhibition Technician– Installs and de-installs exhibitions with attention to artifact safety and aesthetic display.
Administration and Support Roles
Administrative staff support the museum’s operations across departments, from finance and HR to communications and fundraising. These professionals help ensure that exhibitions, programs, and museum operations run efficiently and effectively.
- Marketing and Communications Officer– Promotes exhibitions and public events through media and digital channels.
- HR Coordinator– Manages recruitment, onboarding, and staff well-being.
- Development Officer– Works on fundraising campaigns and donor relations to support the museum’s growth.
Qualifications and Skills
Each job at the Ashmolean Museum comes with its own set of requirements, but there are some common qualifications and skills valued across all roles. These include a genuine interest in arts and culture, excellent communication abilities, teamwork, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
For curatorial and research roles, advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) are often expected, along with published research or exhibition experience. Conservation roles may require specialized training in fine art or archaeological artifact preservation. For visitor-facing jobs, customer service experience and enthusiasm for public interaction are key.
Internships and Volunteering
For those looking to build experience before applying for full-time positions, the Ashmolean Museum offers several internship and volunteer opportunities. These are ideal for students or early-career professionals. Volunteers might assist in exhibitions, cataloging, or educational programs, while interns gain structured, hands-on experience in museum operations.
Participating in these programs can often lead to future employment within the museum or other cultural institutions, and they are a great way to understand the museum’s values and work culture.
Work Environment and Culture
The Ashmolean Museum fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment. Employees work in a historic setting with access to world-renowned collections and resources. The museum also emphasizes staff development, offering training programs, workshops, and opportunities to attend conferences.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important values within the organization. The museum actively seeks to recruit staff from varied backgrounds to reflect the global nature of its collections and audience.
How to Apply for Jobs at Ashmolean Museum
Job vacancies at the Ashmolean Museum are typically posted on the University of Oxford’s recruitment portal. Each listing includes a detailed job description, required qualifications, and instructions on how to apply. Applicants are usually asked to submit a resume and cover letter, and in some cases, work samples or academic publications.
Recruitment cycles may vary, but jobs are often advertised throughout the year. It’s helpful to regularly check job postings and tailor applications to the specific requirements of each role.
Working at the Ashmolean Museum means being part of a dynamic team that brings history and art to life for the public. Whether you’re a seasoned curator, an educator, or someone passionate about visitor experience, there are opportunities for growth and contribution at every level. Jobs at the Ashmolean offer a chance not only to work with remarkable collections but also to make a meaningful impact on cultural heritage and public education.