Conservation Scientist

About the role

The Conservation Scientist conducts scientific research and analysis to inform the preservation and scholarly interpretation of the Museum’s collections. As a member of the Museum’s scientific staff, they help facilitate the development of the Scientific Research Department, and its staff. They contribute to long-range planning for department and Conservation Division. They participate in related activities to enable the Museum to fulfill its mission and maintain the highest standards of scholarship and professional practice.

Responsibilities

• Undertake scientific research and analysis of the Museum’s collections for their preservation and scholarly interpretation.
• Collaborate with conservators, curators, scientists, and educators at the Museum and elsewhere, regarding scientific, conservation, and art historical research.
• Prepare and disseminate written reports of scientific findings to Museum staff, as appropriate.
• Makre research public via scholarly journals, exhibition catalogues, and presentations at conferences and public lectures.
• Enhance scholarship by staying abreast of developments in scientific and conservation literature and fields.
• Help plan and develop laboratory resources through grant proposals, in-kind donations and cultivation of individuals able to provide support.
• Help select and use instruments, and maintain instruments, equipment, and supplies.
• Work to ensure a safe laboratory environment for occupants.
• Help mentor and facilitate research of department’s technicians, fellows, interns, and students, and encourage their professional development.
• Help develop and implement departmental budget.
• Participate in tours and events for visitors and donors and fundraising events.
• Help develop and maintain professional collaborations with academic and corporate laboratories to provide external support.
• Perform educational outreach, e.g., lectures in chemistry or preservation programs.
• Participate in professional organizations.
• Ensure that appropriate skills and knowledge are developed and maintained through continuing education, training, and professional meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• PhD degree in a physical science or related discipline, and 5+ years professional experience in a museum, academic, or corporate research laboratory.
• May have supplemental conservation, fine arts, or art history degree.
• Competency in analytical techniques, such as FTIR, GC/MS, SEM/EDS, XRD, XRF, and related computer applications.
• Excellent communication skills in speaking and writing (evidence required).
• Ability to work and interact successfully with others in broad range of disciplines and positions, e.g., co-workers, students, and visiting scholars.
• Experience maintaining laboratory equipment and supplies.

Qualifications

• Must pass a background check after a conditional job offer is made.

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of relevant software and laboratory equipment.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Fully paid short-term disability insurance, long-term disability insurance, and life insurance.
• Health savings or flexible spending account program.
• Retirement savings program with museum match.
• Paid vacation, personal days, sick days, and holidays.

Pay

$91,000

Schedule

Full-time, Exempt, 35 hours per week