Volunteer Role Description
Roman Pottery Curatorial Training Placements
Background
The Department of Archaeology & Numismatics, Amgueddfa Caerdydd – National Museum Cardiff
has a constantly expanding collection. Most of our recent excavated collections have been
generated by University researchers and through development control archaeology from across
Wales. Several of these collections are vast, containing many thousands of sherds of Roman
pottery.
Purpose of role
We are seeking volunteers, to help with the curation of some large collections of Roman pottery from
Welsh archaeological sites. The work of repackaging and basic listing of several of these large
collections has already been completed. We are now in a position to build on and to refine this work
by checking and refining identifications. Work will also entail the improvement of Museum location
records to improve the accessibility of these collections to future researchers.
Location: Amgueddfa Caerdydd – National Museum Cardiff
Department: Archaeology & Numismatics
Main tasks
The training will provide basic museum skills:
- In sorting collections of Roman pottery from excavations at the Roman forts of Leucarum
(Loughor) and Segontium (Caernarfon), and the Iron Age and Roman farmstead at Whitton.
- In identifying pottery fabrics and vessel forms.
- How museums package objects to minimise potential future damage to them in storage and
make them accessible for future study.
- To learn about accessioning and recording standards used by museums when documenting
collections.
Requirements
Essential
 A passion for archaeological artefacts
 An interest in Roman pottery
 Good attention to detail
 To be prepared for some repetition in the tasks undertaken
Desirable skills/knowledge or interests in
 An interest in the Roman archaeology of Wales
Hours & commitment
We are seeking a volunteer who is available for two weeks Monday to Friday between 9.30am and
4.30pm
Dates available are either 16th – 27th July 2012, or 30th July – 10th August 2012
Benefits

Learn more about the work that goes on behind the scenes to care for an archaeological
collection

Have an intensive hands-on experience of working with real archaeological collections

Gain an insight into the work of an archaeology department in a large national museum.

Reference supplied if required
Reporting to – Elizabeth Walker, Collections Manager, Department of Archaeology & Numismatics
Training and Support - A general Museum induction and project specific training will be provided,
as well as ongoing support and task specific training from the archaeology curatorial team.
How to apply –
Candidates should apply by letter setting out their reasons for wishing to undertake an internship
and outlining any previous experience of working in a museum. You should also provide the name
and email address of a referee. Letters of application should be addressed to the Secretary, Dr
Fiona Haarer, and sent by email by 31st May to: office@romansociety.org
Deadline for applications
31st May
Many thanks for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you!