Archives Description:
The Archives at the National Centre for Biological Sciences, or the Archives, is a new public space for the history of contemporary biology in India. http://archives.ncbs.res.in/. The Archives opened to the public with 18 collections, with a variety of primary research material – administrative records, annotated manuscripts, maps, architectural drawings, lab notes, photographs, negatives, slides, oral histories and other electronic audio/visual material. All details are on the website.
Position overview: The project assistant and communications coordinator is responsible for updating the cataloguing efforts in the Archives, communication efforts in combination with the Dengue Project at NCBS, and also some minor administrative duties (see eligibility/requirements)
Position description:
a. Archives project assistant – cataloguing and description (50% of time)
Academic or practical knowledge of archival accessioning, description methods necessary, including understanding of archival finding aids and hierarchical structure of material. A significant portion of archival material needs to be revisited to add descriptions along that axis. Familiarity with any implementation of archival standards and description is a plus but not necessary. Candidate will be required to work on populating archival accessioning and description data using ArchivesSpace and on a Drupal platform (training can be provided for these). Candidate will also work closely with the archivist at NCBS on occasional administrative duties (25% of time) related to the running of the archive. An ability to gauge conservation needs for existing material is a plus. Candidates are expected to have a broad understanding of privacy and copyright issues with privately donated material, and the broad distinctions between restricted and unrestricted material. Ability to apply archival judgment to earmark archival material for conservation/preservation is a plus. Candidates should be competent with most things digital (spreadsheets, word processing, database entry, web navigation, ability to figure out scanning and archiving cataloguing needs). They should have good organization and communication skills (one or more of English/Hindi/Kannada). Commitment to time, an eye for detail and an ability to self-direct after initial training is critical. Also essential is an ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive documents. A sense of humour and being resourceful helps.
b. Communications – Archives and Public Health Network (50% time)
Half the time for the position is dedicated to a communications-heavy public-facing role. The communications has two parts to it, and the candidate will also be responsible for charting out a vision for these two wings of their communication work.
- The Archives has an increasing public presence and requires active updates on social media channels and also outreach regarding its public lecture series (details available through an online search). This person will also have to chalk out other programming for the Archives to broaden its visibility among students and the public alike. This can include reading sessions, archives material discussions and more.
- The Archives is partnering with the Dengue Project to develop a Public Health Network, with a focus on bringing discussions to NCBS at the history, journalism, sociology, biology, medicine and public health policies. This involves working closely with members of our campus and other collaborators and colleagues across the country. The candidate will be responsible for communicating with campus members, organising engagement events and facilitating their involvement in local research projects by working with researchers to deliver focus/discussion groups and arranging review of research related materials. The role will provide opportunities to work with researchers to develop innovative and inspiring approaches to public engagement, which reach a wide range of participants and reflect contemporary and exciting questions in ethics and humanities. For instance, within the next six to seven months, there is an opportunity to shape a seminar with a multi-dimensional perspective to public health. This would include a mix of practitioners, journalists, historians, sociologists, policy experts, students, and field researchers.
Eligibility/requirements: Preferred Masters degree (or equivalent) with relevant coursework in museology/archival methods/conservation OR Masters/Bachelors degree (any field) with demonstrated prior experience (> 1 year) working in an archive/conservation space. The candidate needs to be equal to or less than 28 years of age. Relevant experience in public engagement with a track record of designing and delivering successful public events /projects. Possess excellent communication and organizational skills.
Position timeline: This is a one year role, with potential extension up to December 2020.
The Last date for receipt of online applications: 25th June, 2019.
Process:
(a) All interested applicants should apply through the job portal
(b) Short-listed candidates will receive an online questionnaire, which has a mix of questions around archival judgment and logistics.
(c) Those selected from this questionnaire will be asked to make time for a 45-minute interview slot (in person/phone/Skype).
(d) Final short-listed candidates will be required to provide names of two relevant referees who will be contacted as a final step in the process.
HOW TO APPLY ONLINE:
Step 1: Interested candidates should click on Apply button available on the open position tab.
Step 2: Enter your full name and valid email address
Step 3: You will receive an email with link which proceed for next step
Step 4: Once you fill in the application you can SAVE or PREVIEW the application. Please Note: Any corrections should be made before you SUBMIT the application.
Step 5: Take a Print out of the application form by clicking “PRINT” in “MY APPLICATION” and send the same duly Signed to the Head, Establishment, NCBS-TIFR, GKVK PO, Bellary Road, Bangalore- 560065, along with self attested copies of certificates regarding date of birth, educational qualifications, experience etc. latest by 25th June, 2019.
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Head, Establishment