ARTICT | Art Through the ICT Lens Project: Big Data Processing Tools to Support the Technical Study, Preservation and Conservation of Old Master Paintings)
The National Gallery seeks to recruit a highly motivated individual interested in pursuing innovative interdisciplinary research to improve how analytical imaging data is interrogated, interpreted and presented. This cutting-edge research will be undertaken as part of the EPSRC-funded three year ARTICT | Art Through the ICT Lens project which brings together ICT and Heritage Science researchers from University College London, Imperial College London and the National Gallery to co-create and apply novel signal analysis and processing algorithms to support the technical study, conservation and preservation of artworks. The three-year ARTICT project started in October 2018. The post holder will be one of three research fellows working on the project: see http://gow.epsrc.ac.uk/ NGBOViewGrant.aspx?GrantRef= EP/R032785/1
The post holder will undertake research and development work to allow improved identification, characterisation, and visualisation of the materials and features of interest in a painting, including in sub-surface layers, drawing on the wealth of analytical imaging data now available in the heritage sector through the applicationof macro X-ray fluorescence scanning, hyperspectral and other imaging techniques. The post holder’s role will be to provide analytical, spectroscopic and (chemical) imaging expertise to all aspects of the research. The post holder will therefore need knowledge of the physics of data acquisition and materials response to radiation, as well as practical experience with analytical/imaging equipment and data interpretation, ideally within a heritage science context. The post holder will additionally hold a key coordination role in the project and will be expected to be involved in all dissemination, exploitation, innovation and impact activities. They will also deliver the data management plan. The post holder will also help to more fully integrate complex analytical imaging technologies, image-based analytical data and signal processing approaches into the wider work of the National Gallery and the heritage sector more generally.
Suitable candidates will have a first degree and PhD (or equivalent post-graduate research experience) in an appropriate scientific subject and further research experience in a relevant area. They are likely to have a background in hyperspectral or chemical imaging, spectroscopy or X-ray based analysis/imaging (ideally within a heritage context) or possibly in signal or image processing and machine learning. In addition, candidates must have significant practical computing experience and ideally some familiarity with programming. The candidate must also have a strong interest in conducting and disseminating innovative high-profile research in an interdisciplinary field. As well as having suitable technical knowledge and experience, candidate must have excellent reporting, communication, project management and interpersonal skills. Experience of working in a museum environment and an interest in Western European painting and/or conservation is highly desirable.
This is a fixed term contract for 30 months with the possibility of extension to a maximum of 36 months
Closing date: 4 November 2018
Interview date: Week commencing 12 November 2018
For more information and application details see http://www.nationalgallery.