Purpose of the Role
We have currently reached capacity with this role and are unable to accept any more Collections Care/Documentation Research Volunteers at this point in time. We hope to reopen this volunteering role in the near future - please keep an eye on this page if interested.
To assist with the care and documentation of the Museum diverse collections.
The Lapworth Museum holds the finest and most extensive collections of fossils, minerals and rocks in the Midlands. Our collections range from geological specimens, through to scientific instruments and archives.
I am a Lapworth volunteer and work behind the scenes, helping to catalogue specimens, reorganise the archive and other aspects of museum administration. I came late to Geology, although when flying to many parts of the world while serving in the RAF I had unknowingly been seeing geology for years, and started studying it with the Open University in 1990, graduating with a BSc in 2001. I am still studying with the OU, this time for an MSc in Earth Science. (Mike Hermolle - Collections Care Volunteer)
Volunteers will assist the Museum’s Assistant Curator and other volunteers with:
- The re-organisation of the collections. This may include; sorting and re-boxing specimens, conducting condition checks, and producing labels.
- Collections data entry.
- Object conservation, including object cleaning and care.
- Collections research and documentation.
There is no requirement of specific experience or qualifications, though it is important to have an interest in the work. You will receive training in the different aspects relating to your volunteer role.
We hope volunteers have:
- An interest in geology/natural sciences and museums.
- ICT skills (particularly Excel)
- Attention to detail
- A friendly manner
- The ability to work independently, but under guidance from the Lapworth Team.
Volunteers may be required to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and we may request a character reference.