Research Assistant: Molecular Analysis

Scientific Research (SR)
Full-time
Fixed-term – 2 Years – Starting in Spring 2024
£33,803 per annum
Application deadline: 12pm (midday) on 15th January 2024

About the role:

The post-holder will work with experts at the British Museum and the University of Reading to assemble chemical evidence to reconstruct the history of chocolate within the food culture of Mexico and Central America. The post-holder will develop and optimise analytical methods for detection of diagnostic archaeological biomarkers for chocolate and other food materials. They will generate and interpret data acquired from residues associated with archaeological ceramics within the framework of a wider project on the archaeology of chocolate.

Key areas of responsibility:

• To undertake analysis of archaeological food residues, using LC-MS, GC-MS pyrolysis-GC-MS, and other analytical techniques, such as microscopy, as required by the demands of the project.
• To develop and optimise analytical methods for the detection of chocolate and other food products in archaeological residues to meet the research objectives 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 produce research outputs through publication, conference presentations, workshops, website content & social media, gallery/exhibition/display material and participation in public events.
• To collaborate with the project lead at the University of Reading.

About you:

• BA/BSc (or equivalent) in a relevant science subject.
• Experience in the analysis of organic materials, especially food biomarkers, using LC-MS, GC-MS, pyrolysis-GC-MS.
• Experience of research.
• 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.

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 one of the leading visitor attractions and its world-famous collection includes the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, Egyptian mummies, the Admonitions Scroll, and the Amaravati sculptures.

The Museum offers a competitive benefits package including:

• Membership of the civil service pension scheme
• 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.
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Interest-free travel, bicycle and rental deposit loans
• Professional and personal development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounts on food and gift shop purchases

Additional details:

For more information about this role, please see the job description.

If you have any additional needs that we should be aware of in order to support you with your application, please provide details to bmrecruit@britishmuseum.org.

The British Museum is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants. We aim to create a working environment in which all individuals can make best use of their skills, free from unlawful discrimination or harassment. We value the benefits that a diverse workforce brings to a Museum which represents world culture. The Museum is committed to ensuring that no job applicant suffers unlawful discrimination because of any protected characteristics. Our recruitment procedures aim to ensure that individuals are treated fairly because of their relevant knowledge, skills and experience.