Conservation and Scientific Research Fellowship

The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers fellowships for junior and senior conservators and scientists to pursue advanced training and independent research projects. Fellows collaborate with curators and are paired with a supervisor to access The Met’s collection, staff, libraries, research facilities, and labs.

About the Museum

The Met presents over 5,000 years of art from around the world at two iconic New York City sites—The Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters. Since its founding in 1870, the Museum has fostered a collaborative and respectful work environment, engaging diverse audiences and staff passionate about creating the most dynamic and inspiring art museum in the world.

Fellowship Details

• Term: September 1, 2027–August 31, 2028
• Schedule: Full-time
• Compensation: $53,000 stipend (junior fellows); $63,000 stipend (senior fellows); plus $6,000 travel stipend

Eligibility

• MA graduates, PhD candidates, postdoctoral scholars, and senior scientists and researchers are eligible.
• Junior fellows must have an MA in-hand by September 1, 2026, and will verify degree completion before starting.
• Junior fellows include recent MA graduates or current PhD candidates; applicants who receive their PhD after the submission deadline are not eligible for the senior fellowship.
• Senior fellows must have at least eight years of experience in the field with a proven publication record or hold a PhD by the application deadline.
• Non-US citizens or permanent residents may apply if they can obtain valid work authorization under applicable US visa regulations.
• International applicants currently in the US on a visa sponsored by another entity (e.g., university, museum, or employer) should consult their visa sponsor before applying.
• F-1 visa holders may request CPT or OPT from their school to participate.
• The Met may sponsor eligible applicants for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Program; prior J-1 visa holders should review BridgeUSA regulations before applying.
• The Met does not reimburse visa application costs.

Application deadline: November 12, 2026 (5 PM ET).