Somali Manuscripts Conservator

About the role

We are looking for a qualified conservator to support the preservation, stabilization and conservation of historic Somali manuscripts. The role involves assessing condition, carrying out treatments and providing guidance to local staff and custodians.

Key responsibilities

• Assess the physical condition of historic manuscripts and identify conservation needs.
• Carry out stabilization and conservation treatments.
• Provide advice on safe handling, storage and preventive conservation.
• Support preparation of manuscripts for digitisation.
• Document condition assessments, treatments and recommendations.
• Establish practical conservation procedures for the local team and deliver on‑the‑job training.

Required profile

• Professional experience in paper, book or manuscript conservation.
• Experience working with historic or fragile paper materials, archives or libraries.
• Strong documentation and reporting skills.
• Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team, including fieldwork and travel.
• Somali nationals are strongly encouraged to apply.

Required skills

• Paper conservation
• Book conservation
• Manuscript conservation
• Preventive conservation techniques
• Use of conservation materials, tools and treatment methods