Academic training in Art History, History, Anthropology, Museum Studies, or a related field relevant to Japanese art and culture.
Experience working within a museum curatorial environment.
Demonstrated research and analytical skills, including the ability to conduct detailed collections-based research.
Proficiency in reading and writing Japanese.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate research clearly to different audiences.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage priorities and meet project deadlines.
Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a diverse, cross-functional team.
Responsibilities
Conduct collections-based research on Japanese artworks and artifacts being considered for inclusion in the new gallery.
Research and help identify potential acquisitions and loans that support the gallery’s interpretive and collections objectives.
Collaborate in developing narratives, methodologies, and approaches for understanding and presenting Japanese art and culture in a museum setting.
Contribute research and content to gallery development, publications, exhibitions, programs, and related initiatives.
Maintain accurate collections documentation and data within ROM’s collections management system, TMS.
Participate in cross-functional Japan Gallery development meetings and contribute research expertise throughout the project.
Support community consultation and engagement with advisory groups as part of the gallery development process.
Collaborate with curators and colleagues across ROM to advance project priorities, milestones, and deliverables.
Desired Qualifications
Familiarity with museum collections databases such as TMS, digitization practices, and related software.
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 – Japan Gallery for a two-year, full-time contract to support the development of the Prince Takamado Gallery of Japan, planned for 2028.
Reporting to the Chief Curator, Art and Culture and working closely with the Bishop White Committee Curator of Japanese Art and Culture, you will contribute to the research and development of the new gallery while supporting related publications, exhibitions, programs, acquisitions, and loans.
You will research artworks and artifacts within ROM’s collection, contribute to the development of new narratives and approaches to presenting Japanese art and culture, maintain collections documentation, and participate in consultation and collaboration with colleagues and communities. This is an exciting opportunity for an emerging museum professional with expertise in Japanese art and culture to contribute directly to a major gallery development project.
HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT
Conduct collections-based research on Japanese artworks and artifacts being considered for inclusion in the new gallery
Research and help identify potential acquisitions and loans that support the gallery’s interpretive and collections objectives
Collaborate in developing narratives, methodologies, and approaches for understanding and presenting Japanese art and culture in a museum setting
Contribute research and content to gallery development, publications, exhibitions, programs, and related initiatives
Maintain accurate collections documentation and data within ROM’s collections management system (TMS)
Participate in cross-functional Japan Gallery development meetings and contribute research expertise throughout the project
Support community consultation and engagement with advisory groups as part of the gallery development process
Collaborate with curators and colleagues across ROM to advance project priorities, milestones, and deliverables
WHAT YOU BRING
Academic training in Art History, History, Anthropology, Museum Studies, or a related field relevant to Japanese art and culture
Experience working within a museum curatorial environment
Demonstrated research and analytical skills, including the ability to conduct detailed collections-based research
Proficiency in reading and writing Japanese
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate research clearly to different audiences
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage priorities and meet project deadlines
Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a diverse, cross-functional team
Familiarity with museum collections databases such as TMS, digitization practices, and related software is an asset
WHAT WE OFFER
Comprehensive benefits coverage: For permanent and full-time contract positions (conditions apply), enjoy 100 percent premium-free benefits for individuals and families, a health spending account, flexible working options (varies by position), and an Employee Assistance Program.
Worry-free retirement savings: With our optional 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: October 2026
OPEN DATE: September 16, 2026
CLOSE DATE: Open until filled
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
Initial conversation: A 30-minute virtual conversation** with a Recruiter to discuss your interest in the role and ROM and how you can make an impact.
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.
Second interview: A 1-hour in-person meeting with the Hiring Manager and relevant team members. You may be asked to present a pre-assigned case study and discuss scenarios relevant to your role. Depending on the position, you might also be given a tour of ROM and receive a preview of your responsibilities and interactions.
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.
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.