Research Assistant - Provenance Studies, Ancient Greece & Rome (24-month Contract) - Royal Ontario Museum

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ABOUT US

Established in 1914, Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a renowned hub of learning and exploration—a source of daily inspiration for its dedicated workforce. As the highest-rated museum in Canada and among the top ten in North America, our employees take immense pride in their association with us. Museum roles span a wide spectrum, encompassing diverse professions such as computer programmers, graphic designers, educators, and curators. We seek individuals who exemplify unwavering dedication to service excellence and hospitality—those who go the extra mile to ensure our Visitors and Members feel truly welcomed and appreciated.

OUR BENEFITS

We offer medical, dental, vision, and Employee Assistance Programs benefits.
We offer a health spending account to support the healthcare needs of our employees.
Based on their role, ROM employees enjoy at least 15 vacation days.
Personal days are provided for employees to take time off for personal matters and well-being.
Permanent full-time employees receive exclusive membership benefits.
Uniforms are provided, cleaned, and maintained by ROM for specific positions.
Exclusive discounts to over 200 attractions via Attractions Ontario.
Our employee benefits package includes a defined benefit pension to help you create a secure future. The CAAT Pension Plan provides a predictable lifetime retirement income, survivor benefits, early retirement options, and more without the stress of making investment decisions.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT

At ROM, we consider equity, diversity, and inclusion foundational to our institutional success. We seek to foster a workplace that reflects the diversity of the city and province in which we are located and welcome all qualified and experienced candidates to apply, regardless of their gender, age, sex, race, religion, ethnicity, ability, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

ROM is committed to fair and accessible employment practices. Upon request, suitable accommodations are available under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act (AODA) to applicants invited to an interview. If you require accommodation or have general inquiries, don't hesitate to get in touch with us at [email protected].

Research Assistant - Provenance Studies, Ancient Greece & Rome (24-month Contract)

Toronto, ON, Canada

Full Time

COLLECTIONS & RESEARCH

Experienced

WHO WE ARE
Opened in 1914 and welcoming over 1.3 million visitors annually, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada's most-visited museum, ranking among the top 10 cultural institutions in North America. At ROM, we are dedicated to building and sharing global collections, sharing knowledge, inspiring learning, and fostering community engagement. As a globally recognized field research institute, ROM houses an impressive collection of over 18 million artworks, cultural objects, and natural history specimens, showcased in over 40 galleries and exhibition spaces. We are committed to creating a space where art, culture, and nature intersect, connecting people and communities to the past, present and shared future.

As we continue to work toward our goals to transform and evolve as one of the world’s foremost 21st-century museums, we seek passionate and dynamic team members who embody our mission and values.

WHO WE NEED

We are seeking a Research Assistant – Provenance Studies (Ancient Greece & Rome) for a two-year contract to conduct original, collections-based research that strengthens our understanding and documentation of ROM’s Ancient Greece & Rome collections.

Reporting to the Chief Curator, Arts & Culture and supervised by the Manager of Provenance Studies, you will work collaboratively with curators and colleagues across ROM to investigate the ownership and collecting histories of objects requiring further research. Your work will improve the accuracy and quality of collections data, strengthen provenance documentation, and make provenance information more accessible to both internal and public audiences.

This role is an exciting opportunity for a researcher with specialized knowledge of Greek and Roman antiquity who is interested in applying their expertise to questions of collections history, ethical stewardship, transparency, and public accountability.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

Conduct original, collections-based provenance research on Ancient Greece & Rome objects requiring further investigation
Research and document ownership, collecting, and transfer histories using archival, published, collections, and other relevant sources
Prepare clear, accurate provenance histories and supporting documentation for inclusion in ROM’s collections management system (TMS)
Produce research reports and maintain thorough documentation to support institutional records and ongoing provenance work
Translate complex and potentially sensitive research findings into accessible public-facing content, including website articles, blog posts, and other materials
Collaborate with the Manager of Provenance Studies, curators, registrars, Collections Information staff, and other stakeholders to strengthen museum-wide provenance documentation practices
Contribute to provenance-related policy research and the continued development and implementation of documentation standards
Support provenance research and interpretive content for Ancient Greece & Rome galleries, exhibitions, and related initiatives as required
Contribute to ROM’s broader commitment to responsible, transparent, and ethical collections stewardship

WHAT YOU BRING

Advanced degree in Classical Studies, Art History, Archaeology, or a related field, with specialization in Greek and Roman antiquity
Demonstrated experience conducting provenance research, particularly relating to Ancient Greece & Rome collections
Minimum three (3) years of experience working with museum collections management systems, preferably TMS, and a strong understanding of collections documentation practices
Strong research skills and demonstrated ability to critically assess archival, collections, bibliographic, and other historical sources
Knowledge of the 1970 UNESCO Convention and other international agreements relevant to cultural property and provenance research
Strong interest or experience communicating complex and/or sensitive provenance information clearly and accessibly to non-specialist audiences
Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce rigorous research documentation as well as engaging public-facing content
Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with curators, collections professionals, and other stakeholders
A thoughtful and responsible approach to provenance research and an understanding of its role in collections stewardship, interpretation, transparency, and public accountability
Reading proficiency in German is preferred

WHAT WE OFFER

Comprehensive benefits coverage: For permanent and full-time contract positions (conditions apply), enjoy paid benefits for individuals and families, a health spending account, and an Employee Assistance Program.
Worry-free retirement savings: With our pension plan, you benefit from an employer-matched Defined Benefit contribution plan, which provides predictable lifetime retirement income, survivor benefits, and early retirement options without the stress of investment decisions.
Perks: Free ROM membership for permanent full-time and part-time staff, plus discounts to over 200 attractions through Attractions Ontario.
And more!

SALARY & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

START DATE: September 2026
OPEN DATE: August 24, 2026
CLOSE DATE: August 31, 2026
STATUS: Full-time Contract
EMPLOYEE GROUP: OPSEU Local 543
EXPECTED COMPENSATION: $62,828 - $71,803
SCHEDULE: 35 hours weekly
PROBATIONARY PERIOD: Six (6) months
LOCATION (onsite): Toronto, ON

WHAT TO EXPECT IN OUR INTERVIEW PROCESS

First interview: A 1-hour in-person or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and a member of the HR team. This in-depth interview will focus on your skills and how they align with the team's and ROM's needs.

The above-listed process may change or vary based on the nature and scope of the position.

**All virtual conversations and interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams and may be recorded.**

WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE ROM

Cultural engagement: Daily interactions with Toronto's diverse culture and international visitors offer insights into social and cultural trends. We champion inclusive community programs and connections through diverse experiences.
Continuous learning: At ROM, expertise and continuous skill development are paramount. Our culture of curiosity and open-mindedness fosters growth beyond traditional career paths.
Passion & fulfillment: Our work in preserving and curating cultural narratives brings deep satisfaction. We are passionate about the arts, global history, cultural diversity, and leveraging digital technologies to enhance accessibility.
Team & culture: ROM promotes a positive workplace with collaborative, supportive teams that encourage creativity and innovation. We value new ideas and collective problem-solving.
Academic collaboration: We are committed to education, partnering with universities and providing student resources, underscoring our dedication to research and accessibility.

If you’re excited about this role, even if your experience differs from the specific requirements, we encourage you to apply. We’re keen to meet candidates who can contribute their talents to our goals, and will consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & ACCESSIBILITY
At ROM, we embrace diversity in our exhibits, communities, and teams. We encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and those who can further diversify our ideas. We are committed to equitable employment opportunities and a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

We welcome and accommodate candidates with disabilities throughout the selection process. Please contact us at [email protected] for assistance.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

ROM does not require “Canadian experience.” International applicants with equivalent experience are encouraged to apply.
ROM uses technology-assisted tools (including JazzHR TalentFit) to support the review and screening of applications. All hiring decisions are made by human reviewers.
This posting is for an existing vacancy.

APPLY NOW

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that all candidates receiving a verbal job offer will be subject to a background check. This includes a criminal background check and verification of professional references, and, other checks depending on the role.

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This position is based onsite at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. Are you able and willing to work onsite?*

Do you have an advanced degree in Classical Studies, Art History, Archaeology, or a related field, with specialization in Greek and Roman antiquity?*

Do you have demonstrated experience conducting provenance research related to museum or cultural heritage collections?*

Do you have at least three (3) years of experience working with museum collections management systems and collections documentation practices?*

Do you have reading proficiency in German?*

Please describe your experience conducting provenance research, particularly as it relates to Ancient Greek and Roman objects or collections. What types of sources, records, or research methods have you used?

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