Research Fellow

Description:

The University of Westminster is inviting applications for a part-time Research Fellow to join the AHRC-funded project – Future Ecologies of Clay, in collaboration with the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A). The position is fixed-term and will run until August 2028, requiring 17.5 working hours per week.

The project, led by Professor Clare Twomey at the University of Westminster and co-led by experts from both the V&A and Westminster’s Ceramics Research Centre, aims to address the evolving challenges of collecting and curating ephemeral and participatory clay practices in UK museums. The research is focused on preserving and making accessible a range of historical and contemporary ceramic works that defy traditional archival formats.

As a Research Fellow based at the University of Westminster, the post holder will be embedded in the Centre for Research and Education in Arts and Media (CREAM) and will collaborate closely with another Research Fellow based at the V&A to ensure alignment and integration across institutions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyse case study practice models developed for four major UK museums including the V&A.

• Draft and publish academic case studies and research findings.

• Disseminate research through peer-reviewed articles, conference presentations, and other scholarly activities.

• Manage and regularly update the project website and digital content.

• Support the organization of a national conference and seminar series related to the project.

• Collect, organize, and record data and outputs from research events.

Candidate Requirements:

• Demonstrable expertise in material practice (preferably ceramics), museum/archive research, and documentation methodologies.

• Familiarity with curatorial processes, arts-based research, or participatory cultural projects.

• Strong organisational, analytical, and verbal/written communication skills.

• Capable of working independently and collaboratively within academic and museum teams.

• Willingness to attend regular meetings in Harrow or Central London and travel across the UK (and potentially abroad) as required.

Working Conditions:

• Hybrid working environment with flexibility around remote tasks.

• Semi-regular in-person collaboration required.

• Smart Working principles supported by the University to promote diversity, flexibility, and inclusion.

Additional Details:

• Closing Date: Midnight on 20 August 2025

• Interview Dates: Expected on 9 or 10 September 2025

• Contract Type: Fixed-term until August 2028

• Hours: 17.5 hours per week (0.5 FTE)