Material Science Lab Assistant at Museum of West African Art

Job Summary

MOWAA is seeking a Material Science Lab Assistant to support the daily operations of its conservation, archaeology, and materials science laboratories. This role will provide hands-on technical support to scientific analysis, archaeological material studies, documentation, and conservation activities, working closely with scientists, archaeologists, conservators, and researchers.

The successful candidate will contribute directly to the scientific examination of archaeological collections and heritage materials, supporting research that advances understanding of West Africa’s material past.

The ideal candidate will be practically skilled, methodical, and motivated to build a long-term career within a museum, archaeology, conservation, or heritage science environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the day-to-day operations of MOWAA’s materials science and archaeology laboratories.
• Assist with the preparation and analysis of archaeological samples and heritage materials.
• Support scientific examination of artifacts, including material characterization and documentation.
• Assist with sample preparation, basic laboratory procedures, and routine testing under supervision.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, tools, and workspaces in line with health and safety standards.
• Support documentation and record-keeping of laboratory activities, archaeological findings, and research outputs.
• Assist with cataloguing, labeling, and secure storage of archaeological samples and materials.
• Contribute to data entry, digital documentation, and basic analysis using laboratory databases and software.
• Support visiting researchers, archaeologists, fellows, and interns with practical laboratory needs.
• Assist in the preparation of materials for exhibitions, archaeological research projects, and publications.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and contribute to their continuous improvement.
• Flag technical issues, risks, or equipment needs to senior staff in a timely manner.
• Demonstrate initiative in identifying process improvements and supporting efficient laboratory workflows.
• Take ownership of assigned workstreams and follow through on tasks with minimal supervision.

Key Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Materials Science, Chemistry, Geology, Environmental Science, Physics, or a related discipline. A Master’s degree or demonstrated research training in archaeology or heritage science is an advantage.
• 1–3 years’ experience working in a laboratory, archaeological research, conservation, or technical environment.
• Familiarity with basic laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Experience handling archaeological materials or heritage collections is desirable.
• Experience with data recording, digital tools, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical procedures accurately.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Willingness to learn and develop technical skills over time.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Demonstrated interest in long-term professional development within archaeology, conservation, or heritage science.
• Open to candidates from Nigeria, West Africa, and other nationalities with valid ECOWAS or Nigerian work permits.

Career Growth, Training & Development

MOWAA has a strong culture of learning and invests in developing early- and mid-career professionals.

This role offers exposure to international conservation and archaeological practice, collaboration with global research partners, and the opportunity to build a career pathway within museum science, archaeology, conservation, or heritage research.

The Lab Assistant role is designed as a talent pipeline position, with potential progression into technical specialist, research assistant, or postgraduate study routes.

Terms and Conditions

• Reporting Line: Head of Materials Science
• Duty Station: Benin City, Nigeria
• Contract Duration: 18 months renewable, subject to performance
• Compensation & Benefits: Highly competitive, subject to credentials

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further discussions.