Consultancy opportunity: Indigenous cultural and intellectual property and data sovereignty

Manchester Museum is seeking a consultant or consortium to help shape the future of ethical collections practice in the UK. As part of our values-led mission to build understanding between cultures and contribute to a more sustainable world, we are commissioning a consultation to explore how Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) and Indigenous Data Sovereignty can be meaningfully recognised and embedded within museum documentation and data governance.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to sector-leading work that aligns with the CARE Principles for Indigenous Data Governance and supports the rights of communities connected to cultural heritage. The successful consultant will work with international partners, review best practice, and develop practical tools, policy statements, and documentation models that will help shape how museums in the UK engage with living cultures and traditional knowledge.

Deadline for submissions is 4pm on Monday 13 October 2025.