TG28255483 - Conservation Scientist, RICHeS

Job Introduction

Tate is looking for a RICHeS Conservation Scientist to join our team! 

Are you a Heritage Scientist with interest in the UK Research and the Innovation Research Infrastructure for Conservation and Heritage Science (RICHeS) programme? 

This is a new and exciting opportunity to join the Conservation Department of one of the world’s leading art institutions. We are seeking a conservation scientist to contribute to the understanding, conservation and preservation of artworks in Tate's and other collections through the provision of access, expertise, analysis and research; helping to expand the global reach and impact of conservation and heritage science.

Tate was awarded two infrastructure project grants in 2024 through the Research Infrastructure for Conservation and Heritage Science (RICHeS) initiative entitled Accessing Modern and Contemporary Art Materials Research and Establishing Tate’s Conservation and Heritage Science Archive. These projects commenced in September 2024, spanning a 2-year period to September 2026. The Conservation Scientist roles (x2) were awarded to support the ongoing provision of the RICHeS program at Tate for 5 years from April 1st, 2026, based in the Conservation Science and Preventive Conservation team. This role facilitates and supports access for external researchers to Tate’s conservation and heritage science resources. You will be embedded within a committed, knowledgeable team, carrying out complex scientific analysis and conservation treatment support, the cataloguing and sharing of Tate’s scientific and conservation research data, contributing to the Heritage Science Data Service and co-delivering on access pathways and requests from external users. You will also support the development and delivery of scientific research in art materials and collection care and contribute to in-house scientific support requests. The RICHeS Conservation Scientist roles are key to providing access to heritage science within the UK, as well as addressing the changing material nature of Tate’s collection and our longer-term ambition of developing a modern and contemporary art research hub.  

You will hold a Ph.D. in conservation science, heritage science, technical art history or a physical science, or have equivalent experience in a heritage science or related setting. You will need to demonstrate experience in scientific analysis and research within a complex environment. It is essential that you are experienced in analytical and/or imaging techniques applied to works of art and have experience with complex data analysis and working collaboratively. You will need to demonstrate strong documentation skills, including report writing. You will also have experience communicating with a range of stakeholders, including non-technical audiences. This role requires effective interpersonal and communication skills, both written, visual and oral as well as enthusiasm for expanding the impact of heritage science within the UK and globally.

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