At the intersection of public access and higher education, the Harvard Art Museums invite everyone to embrace inquiry, dialogue, and new perspectives on art and ideas. The museumsâ global collections encompass a broad range of time periods and geographies.
The Fellowship program at the Harvard Art Museums is designed to broaden the experience of those embarking on professional museum careers in art history and related fields, conservation and conservation science, and/or museum education. Fellows are integral members of the museumsâ staff, take part in departmental and museum-wide meetings, and collaborate with colleagues across the museums. Fellows are active members of the program cohort, participating in regular Fellows meetings, workshops, specialized training, and organized activities throughout the year, including presenting their work at an annual Fellows Symposium.
The Straus Center for Conservation and Technical Studies is seeking a postdoctoral scientist for a 3-year research fellowship in the field of conservation science.
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
- Under the supervision of the Senior Conservation Scientist and Director, Straus Center for Conservation and Technical Studies, the Beal Fellow works with scientists, conservators, conservation fellows, curators, and academic art historians on research projects. This position utilizes a broad range of art and artistsâ materials collections in the Harvard Art Museums and other institutions. Emphasis will be shared between traditional and modern/contemporary artistsâ materials and techniques.
- The Fellow provides analytical services to the Harvard Art Museumsâ conservators and curators in the study and preservation of the collection and documenting findings.
- The laboratories are equipped with polarized light and reflectance/UV fluorescence microscopes, GC-MS, FT-IR, Raman and XRF spectrometers. The Fellow assists with instrument maintenance and repair as necessary, and in training others to use the instruments. Beyond the resources of the Center, Harvard University and other local universities and museums offer access to specialized analytical equipment and a large scientific community.
- The Fellowship will involve the organization of workshops and symposia to engage others in examining issues related to conservation science research.
- The Beal Fellow is an integral member of the conservation staff, carrying out a broad range of activities, including presentations of research and other projects; lab maintenance; and leading or participating in lab tours.
- Foregrounding the museumsâ teaching and research mission, the Fellow also participates in interdisciplinary teaching and contributes to a rich offering of public and academic interpretive programs across various platforms.
- The Fellow may supervise students and temporary employees.
- The above covers the most significant responsibilities of the position. It does not, however, exclude other duties, the inclusion of which would be in conformity with the position.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work safely in lab and workshop environments, including the use of chemicals and tools, while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Excellent hand skills and manual dexterity for precise treatment and handling tasks
- Ability to perform fine but physically demanding work, standing or sitting for extended periods while using manual and power tools
- Ability to lift, move, and position objects weighing up to 25 pounds
- Ability to color match
We believe in the potential of candidates from all backgrounds and experiences. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for this role and are excited about the opportunity, we encourage you to applyâeven if you don't meet every single Additional Qualification. Whether you're starting your career, re-entering the workforce, transitioning fields, or seeking the next step, we welcome your unique perspective. Please use your cover letter to share your passion for art museums and how you envision contributing to this role.