Royal Museums Greenwich invites applications for a one-year conservation internship in Horology and Scientific Instruments.
This 12-month internship is part of the Collaborative Conservation Skills Internship Programme, funded by the Anna Plowden Trust, Idlewild Trust, Julia Rausing Trust, Pilgrim Trust, Radcliffe Trust, and National Manuscripts Conservation Trust, in partnership with the Institute of Conservation (Icon).
About the Internship
The programme provides early-career conservators with structured hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and access to training and enrichment opportunities in the specialist field of horological and scientific instrument conservation.
The internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the conservation of historically significant horological and scientific instruments selected for display as part of the First Light project. Royal Museums Greenwich’s world-class collections include over 2,500 instruments, encompassing a wide range of timepieces, astronomical, and navigational objects.
Working with complex composite objects made of metal, wood, glass, and ivory, the intern will gain hands-on experience in conserving material and technological heritage that shaped the development of timekeeping, navigation, and astronomy.
Administrative Details
- Duration: 12 months
- Stipend: Tax-free £20,000, paid directly to the intern. The intern is responsible for any personal tax liability, visa or travel costs, and health or travel insurance.
- Supervision: Karen Jensen, Object Conservation Manager (primary supervisor), supported by Francis Brodie, Horology Conservator (specialist supervisor).
- Professional mentorship: Francesca Whymark ACR FIIC, Senior Manager, 2D Conservation, will provide structured mentorship, including reflective practice and career guidance, to support the intern’s understanding and practical application of Icon’s Professional Standards in conservation.
Training and Professional Development
- Hands-on experience: Conservation treatment, condition assessment, documentation, preventive care, and contribution to ongoing projects, including preparation of objects selected for display in the First Light project. Work will be in line with professional conservation standards and ethical guidelines.
- Professional development and enrichment: Funding is available to attend workshops, training, and networking activities, which will be facilitated directly by Royal Museums Greenwich.
- Specialist skills: Development of expertise in the conservation of horological and scientific instruments, working with complex composite objects (metal, wood, glass, ivory).
- Collaborative learning: Opportunities to work with curatorial and project teams, gaining insight into collection care, display planning, and the practical application of conservation standards.
About You
We welcome applications from candidates who:
- Hold a recognised professional qualification or equivalent experience in object conservation
- Have practical experience with composite three-dimensional objects (metal, wood, glass, organics)
- Have a keen interest and commitment to developing professional skills and to building expertise in the specialist field of horology and scientific instrument conservation
- Are enthusiastic, flexible, and able to work independently and collaboratively
How to Apply
To find out more and apply, please visit the Royal Museums Greenwich Website before the application deadline on 3 December 2025 at 12PM.
Applicants will be asked to provide details of their education and qualifications, relevant experience, a personal statement, and two referees.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to an interview either in person or online. Selection will be made by Royal Museums Greenwich.
Funders
