Research Associate in Heritage Science (Part Time, Fixed Term)

Cambridge University Library invites applications for a fixed-term Research Associate in Heritage Science. The post holder will undertake research, dissemination and impact activities as part of the AHRC-funded project: Hidden in Plain Sight: Historical and Scientific Analysis of Premodern Sacred Books, led by Dr Eyal Poleg (Queen Mary University of London) jointly with Co-Investigators Dr Suzanne Paul (Cambridge University Library) and Dr Paola Ricciardi (Natural History Museum).

This is a unique opportunity to join a cutting-edge interdisciplinary project combining a range of non-invasive scientific and technical methods of analysis with in-depth historical study.

This project (to commence January 2024) is a major collaborative investigation into the transformation of premodern sacred books and objects. It combines in-depth historical study with scientific and technical analyses. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading on the non-invasive scientific analysis of books and objects using a variety of advanced analytical techniques, including microscopy, various types of spectroscopy, multi-spectral imaging, RTI, and CT-scanning.

They will work closely with historians, librarians, museum curators, conservators, scientists and technicians, under the supervision of the PI and Co-Is, to investigate how sacred books were appropriated, modified, mutilated, or used talismanically. The project comprises three themes: books transformed and mutilated in the course of religious reform; books transitioning between Jews and Christians in medieval Europe; talismanic use of Scripture in non-European contexts.

The project is a collaboration between QMUL, Cambridge University Library, the National Library of Wales and the University of Cambridge's Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology. An ambitious dissemination and engagement programme will share the project's findings with a range of academic and non-academic audiences. The postholder is expected to work closely with the Digital Content Unit and Conservation Department at the University Library in Cambridge using analytical equipment held in-house and shared facilities associated with the Cambridge Heritage Science Hub (CHERISH). They will work in close collaboration with another project-funded Research Associate who will focus on historical and textual analysis.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

We welcome applications from individuals who wish to be considered for part-time working or other flexible working arrangements.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the 'Apply' button above.

We particularly welcome applications from candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our institution.Please note you will need to upload a covering letter and CV, as well as completing the online application form. Please include details of three referees; references will only be taken up for shortlisted candidates.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 22 October 2023.

Online interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held Friday 3 November 2023.

If you have any questions about this vacancy or the application process, please contact Dr Suzanne Paul, Keeper of Rare Books and Early Manuscripts (sp510@cam.ac.uk).

Please quote reference VE38582 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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