The RoleAs part of the V&A's Doctoral Placement Programme, we are pleased to offer a unique opportunity for a PhD student to undertake a short-term research placement within the Conservation and Science section of the museum. The V&A's doctoral placements are designed to support early-career training by offering hands-on, mentored experience within the museum's collections, research, and conservation departments. In addition to project-based supervision, placement students are invited to participate in museum-wide training and postgraduate professional development opportunities.This specific placement focuses on the scientific analysis of the Annunciation micromosaic (V&A 7231-1860) - a richly detailed and historically significant object in the collection. Working alongside conservation scientists, the student will apply advanced non-invasive techniques including infrared reflectography, XRF mapping, Raman microscopy, and, where appropriate, FTIR analysis. The aim is to identify the materials, past interventions, and areas of degradation that may inform future conservation strategies.In addition to conducting this technical investigation, the student will produce a detailed internal report for the Conservation and Science teams, contribute to enhanced object records, and share findings more broadly via a V&A blog post and internal presentation. The placement is ideal for a student with a background or strong interest in heritage science, conservation, or technical art history, and offers the chance to engage directly with cutting-edge conservation research in a major museum context.Please note that V&A doctoral placements are unpaid and open only to students currently enrolled on a funded PhD programme. Students must be in receipt of a stipend equivalent to or above the UKRI minimum doctoral rate for the duration of the placement. Some remote working may be possible, but attendance on-site at the museum will be required for key aspects of the research. For full eligibility and application details, please consult the Application Guidance.The CompanyThe Company has experienced unprecedented growth over the past few years. We have a vast number of employees, and provide support to clients from all over the country.
