Jobs, Internships, Fellowships Digest: March 24, 2017

  1. Preventive Conservator (Maternity Cover), Manchester Museum
  2. Associate Conservator for Paper and Photographs, University of Washington
  3. Conservator, John Ashcroft Missouri Secretary of State
  4. Library Technician (Collection Care Technician), The Library of Congress
  5. 2017 Summer Graduate Conservation Student Internship, Missouri History Museum
  6. Deadline Extended – Conservation Manager, University of St. Michael’s College
  7. Collection Care Assistant (Book And/Or Paper), Houses of Parliament
  8. Conservator Anthropology Redisplay, Horniman Museum and Gardens
  9. Conservator Photography, West Kowloon Cultural District Authority
  10. Doctoral Research Fellowship, University of Oslo
  11. Conservator – Paintings & Sculptures, Contemporary Art
  12. PhD Position, The British Museum and Nottingham Trent University
  13. GCI Principal Project Specialist, The Getty Conservation Institute
  14. 2016-2017 IPCNY Internships, International Print Center New York
  15. Department Chair, Prints and Drawings, Museum of Fine Arts Boston
  16. Assistant Paper Conservator, Museum of Fine Arts Houston
  17. Planning Officer (Conservation), City of Bradford MDC

1. PREVENTIVE CONSERVATOR (MATERNITY COVER), Manchester Museum (Manchester, UK)

  • Closing Date: March 29, 2017 at midnight
  • Duration: From April 1, 2017 to 31 January 2018
  • Job Reference: L&CI-09722
  • Part-time post

Manchester Museum is one of the cultural assets of the University of Manchester. Each institution offers a busy program of exhibitions and associated learning and engagement activities, as well as providing rich opportunities for research. An understanding of the balance between sustainability and collection care is an increasing concern, and you will be involved in developing new policies and procedures.

Your responsibilities will include carrying our environmental monitoring throughout galleries and stores in the Manchester Museum. You will liaise with University Estates, House Services and external suppliers to ensure control equipment is maintained and functioning. You will also be responsible for the implementation of the Integrated Pest Management program.

The job requires experience of working in a museum or gallery environment or an equivalent qualification. You should be experienced in the collection care needs of a range of materials.

You will be a confident communicator and have a logical and methodical approach. An ability to manage time effectively, use your own initiative and keep to tight deadlines is essential, as are excellent interpersonal and team working skills. The post will be for 9-10 months to coincide with the maternity period. The University of Manchester values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CV’s or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

For enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting, and interviews: Sam Beath, samantha.beath@manchester.ac.uk. For general enquiries: hrservices@manchester.ac.uk, Tel: +44 0161 275 4499. Technical support: universityofmanchester@helpmeapply.co.uk, Tel: +44 01565 818 234

2. ASSOCIATE CONSERVATOR FOR PAPER AND PHOTOGRAPHS, University of Washington (Seattle, WA, USA)

  • Application deadline: April 2, 2017

The University of Washington Libraries and the Henry Art Gallery have an opening for an Associate Conservator for Paper and Photographs.

Reporting jointly to the Director of Preservation Services at UW Libraries and the Deputy Director of Exhibitions, Collections, and Programs at the Henry Art Gallery, the Associate Conservator will provide conservation treatment of photographic and paper-based materials following the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice. In consultation with current staff, s/he will set priorities and coordinate workflows for conservation treatment. The Associate Conservator will work on unique and diverse collections from both the UW Libraries and the Henry and provide professional advice and education to staff, interns, and other libraries and cultural heritage institutions in the region, as needed.

This position is currently funded for three years (September 1, 2017 through August 31, 2020) with the possibility of an earlier summer 2017 start date.

For full job description, and to apply, see: goo.gl/Fd5Mrd. Applications submitted by Sunday, April 2, 2017, will receive priority consideration. This position is supported through a generous grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

3. CONSERVATOR, John Ashcroft Missouri Secretary of State (Jefferson City, MO, USA)

  • Posting period will end April 4, 2017
  • Starting Salary: $3,077-3,309 per month
  • Location: Jefferson City, MO
  • Department/Division: Local Records Division

Conservators work as a team in Missouri’s only publicly funded conservation lab for treatment of historically significant paper records, primarily from the 19th and early 20th century. Staff provide physical/chemical treatment to stabilize and repair the most significant documents in the State Archives collection and from local government offices – primarily of rare and historical paper records (documents, maps, and books), with occasional stabilization of photographs. The primary work is in conservation treatment; occasional work in outreach (training and consultation) may be required.

Job Functions and/or General Responsibilities:

  • Perform ethical and safe conservation treatments abiding by the American Institute for Conservation’s Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice and directions of supervisors.
  • Evaluate paper-based documents and carry out conservation treatments at varying degrees of complexity.
  • Perform necessary chemical and physical testing to determine treatment needs.
  • Develop condition reports and treatment proposals, and create photo documentation for work proposed and performed. Maintain tracking records in established computer files.
  • Repair non-rare books from the Archives reference collection.
  • Perform high-volume/minimal-treatment to stabilize paper records for microfilming or digitization.

Perform treatments including:

  • dry surface cleaning,
  • humidification and flattening,
  • removal of tapes, adhesives, backings, fasteners, and old mends, including solvent use when warranted,
  • aqueous treatment to wash and/or deacidify,
  • mending and backing/lining,
  • encapsulation,
  • construction of customized protective enclosures, and
  • mold remediation.

Perform conservation support functions such as:

  • preparing pastes and chemical solutions,
  • maintaining equipment,
  • cleaning tools and lab space,
  • storing supplies and monitoring inventories,
  • generating project reports and filing conservation documentation.

Training: Occasionally provide training for in-house staff, volunteers, and interns regarding: safe handling procedures, holdings maintenance procedures (fastener removal, surface cleaning, humidification and flattening, housing), etc.

Outreach: On occasion, provide information and education to outside groups, such as the following:

  • answer technical questions for state/local agencies, cultural organizations, and the public on preservation topics,
  • provide onsite consultation to local officials and civic organizations on discrete topics such as storage and housing, care and handling, environmental control, pest management, disaster preparedness, etc.,
  • formal, hands-on workshops in basic care and repair procedures to local government officials, professional organizations, civic groups, or interns,
  • educational programs and tours of the conservation lab, and
  • write technical leaflets for the agency website, such as those at www.sos.mo.gov/archives/localrecs/conservation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of conservation principles and established conservation practices.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, public officials, private groups, and the public.
  • Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing.
  • Demonstrated effectiveness performing paper conservation treatments in a production setting.
  • Excellent manual dexterity and sustained concentration with delicate and occasionally repetitive tasks.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications and photo-editing software.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work with documents that contain dust and mold spores.
  • Ability to stand, bend, kneel, reach shelves above eye level; lift and carry a forty-pound box; and climb a ladder to retrieve materials.
  • Ability to travel, including occasional overnight trips.
  • Must possess a valid Missouri driver’s license, or can secure one within 30 days of employment.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum Education/Experience: Bachelor’s degree required. At least 2 years advanced training in conservation acquired through formal studies or a combination of apprenticeship, advanced courses, and internships. Knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of books/paper and an understanding of the causes of deterioration.
  • Preferred Education/Experience: Advanced degree/certificate in paper conservation through an accredited graduate or equivalent certificate program, formal apprenticeship, or equivalent experience OR Master’s degree in library science or archival administration, art, art history, history, historical preservation, or related field, with one year experience in paper conservation. Sound knowledge of organic and physical chemistry.
  • Applicants chosen for an interview should present a portfolio or examples of their paper conservation work, and will undergo a manual dexterity indicator as part of the interview process.

Posting Period: Position posted 3/7/2017. The minimum posting period will end 4/4/2017. After the minimum posting period, the position may be closed to new applicants and filled at any time.

Application Procedures: For employment application, please go to http://www.sos.mo.gov/hr/jobs. Application materials (resume, completed application) may be sent by email to hrmain@sos.mo.gov, or by post mail to: Attn: Conservator, Human Resources, Office of the Secretary of State, P.O. Box 1767, Jefferson City, MO 65102 USA.

4. LIBRARY TECHNICIAN (COLLECTION CARE TECHNICIAN), The Library of Congress (Washington DC, USA)

  • Closing Date: April 7, 2017
  • Vacancy #: VAR000042
  • GS-1411-05 — Library Services — $36,281.00 – $47,171.00

The Library of Congress serves the Congress in fulfilling its duties and preserves and promotes knowledge and creativity for the benefit of the American people. It is the nation’s oldest federal cultural institution and the world’s largest library, with more than 158 million items in its physical collections (including books, manuscripts, prints, photos, film, video, and sound recordings) and over 37 million items online. Located primarily on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the Library is the home of the U.S. Copyright Office, the Congressional Research Service (CRS), the Law Library of Congress, and the National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped.

This position is located in the Preservation Directorate of Library Services and the Collections Conservation Section of the Binding and Collections Care Division. To assure long-term access to collections, the Library regularly labels, binds, repairs and provides custom protective enclosures for new acquisitions, at-risk materials, and fragile and damaged media in all formats. The incumbent works under the direction of the Head, Collections Care Section, performs repairs, and constructs housing and protective enclosures for the Library’s collections.

For a complete job description, visit: Application Information.

5. 2017 SUMMER GRADUATE CONSERVATION STUDENT INTERNSHIP, Missouri History Museum (St. Louis, Missouri, USA)

  • Application deadline: April 7, 2017

The Missouri Historical Society is offering a paid summer internship opportunity for a student currently enrolled in a graduate level art conservation program.

The internship will involve a survey of objects for the museum’s 2018 exhibition “The Mighty Mississippi,” a major exhibit on the past, present, and future of the Middle Mississippi River watershed. The exhibit is intended to reconnect visitors to the center of the Nation’s greatest river and its many important tributaries. A wide variety of artifacts from our collection will be on display in this exhibit – highlights include artifacts from the Mississippian period culture (including ceramic vessels, shell and stone tools); the fur trade period (such as glass bead and iron artifacts, maps, a dugout canoe, and silver reliquary items); and the steamboat period (including a 17-foot high pilothouse, brass boat bells and whistles, furniture, dinnerware, and boatbuilding tools).

This internship will provide the student with an opportunity to closely examine, write condition reports, and photo-document the artifacts associated with the exhibit. Work would be done under the supervision of the Objects Conservator and will include opportunities to carry out treatment on some of the artifacts that are surveyed. Opportunities to create specialized storage housings or other preventive-focused projects are also available.

The intern will work both with the conservator and independently. Work will mainly take place in the conservation lab at the Museum’s Library and Research Center (LRC), as well as in other storage and museum spaces. Final work schedule will be determined between the supervisor and the intern.

A stipend, not to exceed $5,849, will be provided.

The Missouri Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that serves as the confluence of historical perspectives and contemporary issues to inspire and engage our audiences.

To apply, each candidate must complete the online application: www.mohistory.org/intern-application. Please attach a resume and a short statement of interest when applying. If chosen for an interview, the candidate will be asked to supply two references.

For questions, please contact: Vicki Kaffenberger (vak@mohistory.org), or Tamaki A. Harvey Stratman (tamaki@mohistory.org).

6. DEADLINE EXTENDED – CONSERVATION MANAGER, University of St. Michael’s College (Toronto, ON, Canada)

  • Deadline extended to April 7, 2017
  • Department: John M. Kelly Library
  • Compensation: $60,000 – $65,000 depending on qualifications
  • Hours: 35 Hour Work Week
  • Terms: Full-time

APPLY TO: hr.stmikes@utoronto.ca, to the attention of Suzanne Ramnauth, Human Resources Officer. Please include position title in subject line of email when submitting resume and cover letter) Applications should address the selection criteria with a letter of interest and curriculum vitae that includes the names and contact information for three references. Please submit these items as a single PDF with a file name that begins with applicant’s last name.

Position description: This position reports to the Chief Librarian and is responsible for establishing, maintaining, and leading the conservation and preservation program for the circulating, rare book, and archival collections of the John M. Kelly Library and the University of St. Michael’s College Archives.

Background: The Kelly Library is the largest federated college library at the University of Toronto. It is also one of more than 40 libraries at the university. The Collection is strong in the humanities, including Catholic theology, the Middle Ages, book history and media, Celtic Studies, and English, French, Italian, Slavic and German literature.

Primary purpose of position: Reporting to the Chief Librarian, the incumbent performs duties related to the conservation and preservation of library materials, particularly book and paper conservation, using specialized techniques to restore, repair and conserve rare and precious material. The position is responsible for contributing to and carrying out conservation policies, implementing treatment procedures, assessing, evaluating, and prioritizing items for treatment. Maintains and monitors proper storage and handling of materials. Ensures adherence to rules for the access to and use of rare materials. Acts as resource person and instructs others.

Duties:

  1. Oversees the daily operations of the conservation studio (newly built 1,032 square foot studio, ready for use March 13, 2017);
  2. Develops and implements policies for internal staff use of the conservation studio;
  3. Working closely with the Chief Librarian and staff from Finance, assists in the development and implementation of a business model for the conservation studio for rental use and for repairing/restoring materials from external institutions;
  4. Uses specialized techniques to repair, bind, clean and preserve materials, including leather, cloth and paper;
  5. Conducts all aspects of book and paper conservation;
  6. Determines and executes appropriate physical treatment of items, assessing and evaluating materials to determine whether repair work can be completed internally or requires an external expert;
  7. Maintains and monitors proper storage and handling of materials;
  8. Manages adherence to applicable health and safety regulations and guidelines in the studio space.
  9. Acts as resource person, resolving problems, providing information, and instructing others on matters related to conservation, preservation, handling & display of library materials, including digitization plans;
  10. Assesses and monitors collections and their physical spaces;
  11. Prepares and delivers presentations about the Library’s Conservation activities;
  12. Maintains close working relationships with the special collections staff;
  13. Assists with the Exhibit Program, advising on best practices for access and exhibits and assisting in mounting physical materials for exhibitions;
  14. Manages and trains staff including full-time and part-time staff members, students, volunteers and other assistants;
  15. Use performance management techniques to monitor and demonstrate achievement of agreed service levels and to lead on improvement;
  16. Maintains Kelly Library Disaster Plan for the collections and provides leadership during emergency or disaster situations and disaster preparedness activities;
  17. Establishes and maintains a record-keeping system;
  18. Maintains supplies and equipment for conservation and preservation;
  19. Develops and maintains efficient workflow patterns;
  20. Documents in writing and with photographs the current condition of rare and intrinsically valuable material;
  21. Responsible for own professional development and is active at the regional and local levels; keeps up-to-date on state of the art practices and new developments;
  22. Performs other conservation and preservation functions as required.

Qualification/Selection Criteria:

General Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Conservation from a recognized university or college.
  • Excellent written, verbal and presentation communication skills
  • Technical and ethical knowledge of conservation issues relating to the conservation of books and paper;
  • Adaptable, flexible, and able to work with a team;
  • Minimum of 1 year supervisory experience.
  • Experience Requirements:
  • Experience working in an academic environment;
  • Minimum of three years experience with book and paper conservation work post degree; Experience working with a wide variety of staff and faculty.

Physical Requirements

  • Excellent hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity;
  • Able to work standing up for many hours;
  • Able to operate light machinery (board shear, backing press, standing press);
  • Able to lift and carry moderate (12 kilos) weight;
  • Must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when required.

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those considered for an interview will be contacted.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

The University of St. Michael’s College is committed to equity in employment and diversity. If you require accessibility accommodation, please contact Suzanne Ramnauth, Human Resources Officer at +1 416-926-7118 or hr.stmikes@utoronto.ca.

7. COLLECTION CARE ASSISTANT (BOOK AND/OR PAPER), Houses of Parliament (London, UK)

  • Application deadline: April 9, 2017 by 23:59 p.m.
  • Duration: Part Time Permanent (3 days per week-Monday to Weds)
  • Location: Parliamentary Archives, Palace of Westminster, Houses of Parliament, UK
  • Grade and Salary: HL4 (22,150 – 25,212 GBP)
  • Interviews are likely to be held the week of the April 24, 2017

Parliamentary records are at the heart of our democracy. They have embodied our liberties, rights and responsibilities for over five hundred years. The Parliamentary Archives helps Parliament work more efficiently and openly, enabling it to make its decisions and act as effectively as possible. And we want to inspire everyone with the compelling story of Parliament, people, and communities right up to the present day.

The Archives is a shared service of both Houses of Parliament, based in the House of Lords Department of Information Services but jointly funded. It provides innovative and expert information management, preservation, access and outreach services enabling anyone in the world to use Parliament’s records, both now and in the future. It holds over 8km of physical records dating back to 1497 and its digital repository is now operational and growing rapidly. These records include many of the most important constitutional records in the UK, such as the Bill of Rights, the 1832 Great Reform Act and the Death Warrant of Charles I, as well as four million others which have touched the lives of everyone and every community in this country and many abroad.

Preservation & Access is one of three teams in the Archives alongside the Information and Records Management Service and Public Services & Outreach. The three team heads report to the Director, who is head of the office. The Preservation & Access team brings together responsibility for preservation of records in all forms, their cataloguing and digitization, and the provision of online access to records and finding aids. Within this, the Collection Care sub-team delivers a quality collection care service for the Archives. The main focus of the Collection Care team is to help enable safer access to the historic and modern collections in our care by applying a complex range of stabilization techniques and skills that aim to prevent further damage and deterioration. The team also supports other collection care work across the Parliamentary estate.

This new role focuses on the book and paper collections. Under the guidance and supervision of the Collection Care Manager and two conservators, the post holders will undertake technical support, including working within a program of specialist conservation and preservation treatments to the Archive’s collection of records on paper, parchment, seals, photographs, audio-visual, printed and manuscript.

The role will be focused around preparing and maintaining collections for handling during reader usage and digitization, packing and storage, transit, exhibition preparation, including install/de-installation and display.

Other tasks will include making cradles and mounts; surveying the conditions of the collections and making assessments of their preservation requirements; helping to provide clear documentation; providing collection care support to the digitization program; and helping with the training of placements and staff, all under the supervision of a conservator.

The post begins soon after security clearance and will be subject to a 9 month probationary period. Benefits include membership of a pension scheme; annual leave 30 days pro rata, then 35 days pro rata after one year’s service; and assistance for childcare.

To apply for this post, please ensure you complete all sections of our online application form found at https://houseoflordsjobs.engageats.co.uk/ (post reference1870).

The House of Lords is committed to Equal Opportunities.

8. CONSERVATOR ANTHROPOLOGY REDISPLAY, Horniman Museum and Gardens (London, UK)

  • Closing date: 10:00 a.m. on April 10, 2017
  • Interview date: April 19, 2017
  • Ref: CCE4.17
  • Salary: GBP27,289 p.a. (rising to GBP27,846 on successful completion of probation)
  • Hours of work: 35 per week, Monday to Friday
  • Contract: Two posts – both fixed term until 31 March 2018

The HLF (Heritage Lottery Fund) has awarded GBP3.3m to the Horniman Museum and Gardens in south east London to create a World Gallery, due to open in 2018.

We are looking for two enthusiastic and experienced Conservators to assist with the conservation of anthropological objects for the new gallery. As well as a degree in Conservation, you’ll have wide-ranging post-qualification experience, encompassing the care, documentation and treatment of both organic and inorganic anthropological objects in a museum environment.

You will be working with both the Collections Conservation and Care Department and the Anthropology Redisplay project team. In one post, you will divide your time between the Museum in Forest Hill and our Study Collections Centre in North Greenwich, and in the other you will work mostly at the Museum – so the ability to work flexibly within teams and on your own, as well as working to tight project deadlines, is essential.

To apply, please visit our website: www.horniman.ac.uk/about/jobs.

9. CONSERVATOR PHOTOGRAPHY, West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (Hong Kong)

  • Application deadline: 17 April 2017
  • Ref: 16183

A cornerstone of the West Kowloon Cultural District, M+ is Hong Kong’s new museum for visual culture, encompassing twentieth and twenty-first century art, design and architecture, and moving image from Hong Kong, China, Asia, and beyond.

Since 2012, M+ has been presenting diverse public programs and exhibitions, and is amassing a permanent collection, in the run-up to the scheduled 2019 public opening of the museum building designed by Herzog & de Meuron with TFP Farrells and Ove Arup & Partners HK.

The M+ Pavilion, the first permanent building to be completed in WKCD, will serve as the venue for the exhibitions organized by M+ in the run up to the completion of the main M+ building in 2019.

As part of the development of the team we are aiming to create a substantial Conservation team that will deal with the preventative and remedial conservation of the growing M+ Collection. The team will encompass various disciplines amongst which painting, objects, paper, photography and time-based media. For more information about the M+ collection, team and building development, please go to: http://enews.westkowloon.hk/career/conservators.pdf.

Reporting to the Senior Conservator, you will be an integral part of a growing conservation team to set up guidelines for the adequate development of preservation and conservation activities within M+ for one of the leading collections on contemporary visual culture in the world.

You will be responsible for:

  • contributing to the preservation of the M+ collection by participating in a wide range of traditional conservation activities such as producing condition reports and treatment proposals which include thorough documentation, performing treatments according to ethical standard, providing expert opinions on the condition of proposed acquisitions and works planned for loans and exhibitions, conducting environmental monitoring and IPM, and ensuring preventive maintenance necessary for the photographic works in the collection;
  • playing an integral role to the development of conservation policies, procedures, protocols and workflows within the museum;
  • conducting specialized research on the materials and techniques of artists represented in the collection and possibly investigating degradation processes, treatment options and efficacy of treatments;
  • participating in extended conservation / preservation efforts such as developing guidelines for storage and display, best practices for conservation treatment, procedure and the proper care and handling of photographic works in the collection;
  • playing a leading role in advising and training staff in best practices for the care, handling, display, storage, packing and shipping of photographic works;
  • ensuring all other conservation elements such as mount making, environmental monitoring, integrated pest management, collections emergency preparedness and purchase of laboratory supplies, are considered to the highest possible standard;
  • playing a fundamental role in supporting the planning for the conservation lab of the Conservation and Storage Facility (CSF) of the future museum and engaging as necessary in conservation and preservation-related special projects;
  • communicating on conservation topics, if possible reporting on research results through publications or presentations at professional gatherings, in agreement with the Senior Conservator;
  • keeping current on state-of-the-art conservation/preservation methods and techniques by reading relevant literature and attending presentations, seminars or training; and
  • supervising conservation volunteers or interns as required.

You should:

  • possess a master degree or a diploma from a recognized conservation training program with a specialization in photographic materials;
  • have at least 5 years of practical postgraduate experience working on photography conservation and with substantial knowledge of traditional and recent photography techniques; institutional / museum experience is preferred;
  • have proven experience treating and documenting a wide range of works to a high standard with full consideration of practical and ethical issues;
  • have the ability to provide specialist advice for storage, transport and installation of works for display;
  • be knowledgeable / interested in modern and contemporary art, architecture and design, photography and film preservation, including materials and techniques, and demonstrate expertise in diverse conservation techniques and theories; familiarity and experience with cultural materials in South East Asia would be advantageous;
  • be an innovative and enthusiastic team player with strong critical thinking and applied problem solving skills;
  • be able to work in a fast paced and continuously challenging environment;
  • be proficient in MS Windows and / or Apple OS platform; and
  • have strong oral, written and interpersonal communication skills in English and preferably in Cantonese or Mandarin.

For interested parties, please submit your application along with your CV on or before 17 April 2017 via online application or by mail quoting the reference number, name of the position, expected salary and your availability to: Ms. Agnes Chan, West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, Units 608-613, Level 6, Core C, Cyberport 3, 100 Cyberport Road, Hong Kong.

Data collected will only be used for job application processing. Applicants not being invited for interview within 4 weeks from 17 April 2017 may assume their applications unsuccessful.

All related information will be kept up to 24 months and all personal data will be destroyed afterwards.

For more information, visit: www.westkowloon.hk, or contact Ms. Agnes Chan at+852 2200-0013.

10. DOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP, University of Oslo (Oslo, Norway)

  • Application deadline: April 20, 2017

A number of Doctoral Research Fellowships (SKO 1017) are available at the Department of Archaeology, Conservation and History, University of Oslo.

Conservators are encouraged to apply within the research area: “Innovative (non-invasive) scientific methods for the characterization, cleaning, and study of degradation phenomena of painted surfaces.” The successful candidate would work in Conservation Studies under Associate Professor Francesco Caruso, francesco.caruso@iakh.uio.no.

For application details and contacts, see http://uio.easycruit.com/vacancy/1787301/62039?iso=gb. For a full list of research areas, see www.hf.uio.no/iakh/english/about/vacancies/research-areas-phd.html.

11. CONSERVATOR – PAINTINGS & SCULPTURES, Contemporary Art (New York, NY, USA)

  • Application due by April 21, 2017

Provide expert services for conservation studio specializing in preservation and restoration of contemporary art, with special focus on conservation of paintings, sculptures and installations made with non-traditional/modern materials.

Examine and analyze artworks to determine condition, need for conservation, method of conservation/preservation using various scientific methodologies. Where necessary, conduct tests, research materials and in an art historical context, develop and/or innovate new conservation techniques. Execution of tested and new methods of conservation.

Practical, hands on experience required. Must be comfortable working independently, while simultaneously being a strong team player, in a fast-paced environment under tight deadlines. Experience with Mac platforms and Adobe Creative Suite an asset. Experience writing for condition reports and treatment assessments.

Required: University degree in conservation; portfolio of past treatments including sample reports and images demonstrating advanced expertise in contemporary art conservation.

Must have authorization to work in the United States. Salary commensurate with experience.

Please email application to: Contemporary Conservation, Ltd., studiomanagercc@gmail.com; or mail to: 460 W. 34th Street, Suite 302, New York, NY 10001, USA. Please do not call the studio.

12. PhD POSITION, The British Museum and Nottingham Trent University (Nottingham, UK)

  • Application deadline: April 25, 2017

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a cutting-edge imaging technique that produces 3D images of surface and subsurface microstructure of transparent and semi-transparent materials. It is a powerful tool for the study of museum objects as it can produce images of cross-sections without contact with the object. Information on the composition of vitreous materials will also be collected using spectroscopic techniques and combined with the OCT results, thus giving an overall view of the objects in 3D. In the proposed project, you will research into an effective method of extracting and combining the structural, chemical and optical properties from the OCT and various spectroscopy data for studying manufacturing techniques and degradation processes in vitreous museum artefacts. The project will then focus on different case studies at the British Museum.

The British Museum has a collection of some 230 Limoges painted enamels. These are known to suffer from localized deterioration and this is often limited to specific colors, particularly blue, mulberry and purple. As the deterioration of Limoges enamels is poorly understood, there are currently no effective treatments for Limoges enamels. OCT investigation in 3D subsurface microstructure will allow a better understanding of the deterioration processes, which is a key step towards devising remedial conservation treatments. Another case study will involve determining the manufacturing techniques of ancient Egyptian faience. The British Museum has a large collection of ancient Egyptian Faience spanning the period from the second millennium BC to the fourth century AD. The examination of the microstructure using OCT will be used to distinguish between different manufacturing techniques.

The outcomes of this project will be of great relevance to other cultural heritage institutions holding vitreous objects in their collections.

Applications are invited for an AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Partnership PhD studentship, to be undertaken at Nottingham Trent University (School of Science & Technology) and the British Museum (Department of Scientific Research). This studentship will be jointly supervised by Professor Haida Liang at Nottingham Trent University and Dr. Capucine Korenberg at the British Museum. The studentship is for a three-year (full-time) project entitled ‘Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for the conservation and interpretation of vitreous materials in museums collections’, to commence on 1 October 2017. The student will also be offered an additional (remunerated) six-month placement in conservation science at the British Museum during the PhD to further develop and expand their skills. The student will need to spend concentrated periods of time both at Nottingham Trent University and at the British Museum. This is an interdisciplinary project involving close collaboration between physicists, conservators and conservation scientists. Both partners and the Collaborative Doctoral Partner (CDP) consortium will provide opportunities for training and career development.?

To apply and for more information, visit www.findaphd.com/search/ProjectDetails.aspx?PJID=83756&LID=1195.

13. GCI PRINCIPAL PROJECT SPECIALIST, The Getty Conservation Institute (Los Angeles, CA, USA)

  • Deadline for applications is May 5, 2017
  • Requisition No. 2017-2934

The Getty Conservation Institute (GCI), located at the Getty Center in Los Angeles, California, works internationally to advance conservation practice in the visual arts, broadly interpreted to include objects, collections, architecture, and sites. The Institute serves the conservation community through scientific research, education and training, model field projects, and the dissemination of the results of both its own work and the work of others in the field.

The GCI Buildings and Sites Department’s objectives are: Advance conservation practice through the development and implementation of model projects which incorporate strong research, planning, and educational objectives.

Develop strong collaborative relationships so as to build local expertise, ensure sustainability, evaluate work in progress, and broadly disseminate information resulting from projects.

Disseminate findings through professional publications and conferences; and contribute to the advancement of the field of conservation through the organization of seminars, symposia, and workshops.

The GCI Buildings and Sites Department is seeking a Principal Project Specialist.

Major Job Responsibilities: The Principal Project Specialist explores, develops, and manages potential initiatives and projects related to archaeological site management and conservation. Designs, implements, and monitors initiatives and projects that develop, apply, and test new research and practical approaches that address current conservation challenges of international or regional relevance. Brings demonstrated broad knowledge of the issues and best practices associated with the conservation and management of historic buildings and sites, specifically archaeological heritage. Provides advice and guidance about these issues to staff from other departments of the GCI. Represents the GCI in the international conservation community and forges partnerships with relevant institutions. Conducts needs assessments and identifies strategic issues concerning conservation practice. Scopes, develops, communicates, and executes project plans and budgets for new areas of work and field projects that meet international needs. Develops resource plans and budgets, builds partnerships and project teams. Manages and provides direction to project teams and staff, local and external project partners and consultants. Supervises up to 5 staff. Undertakes research, teaches, writes, publishes or presents results at professional venues.

Qualifications: Graduate degree in architecture, archaeology, conservation, urban planning, or related discipline. Minimum of 10–15 years combined practical and management experience related to cultural heritage conservation. Post graduate degree in an aspect of cultural heritage conservation and strategic and corporate governance and leadership training.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge and demonstrated experience in the practical conservation of archaeology sites. Experience managing teams and supervising staff. Skill and experience in designing, initiating, and managing projects with multi-disciplinary teams. Must be adaptable, analytical, a positive problem-solver, and a creative thinker. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Experience in working in broad contexts including the international sphere. Must be available for frequent international travel. An ability to read, write, and speak a foreign language is preferred.

An excellent benefits package and salary commensurate with experience will be provided. International candidates welcome.

To apply, please see: https://jobs-getty.icims.com/jobs/2934/gci-principal-project-specialist/job. If you have specific questions about the Principal Project Specialist position, please email gcistaffing@getty.edu.

14. 2016-2017 IPCNY INTERNSHIPS, International Print Center New York, (New York, NY, USA)

  • Application deadline: June 1, 2017

IPCNY (International Print Center New York) internships provide junior-year college level or above, recent graduates, graduate students, and postgraduates with practical training at a non-profit arts institution. Working with a small staff in an open office environment attached to an exhibition space, interns gain valuable insight and hands-on experience with all aspects of IPCNY programming, from exhibitions and education to development and communications. Interns come away with specialized professional skills, an understanding of the operations of a multi-faceted arts institution, and broad exposure in the field of prints and contemporary art.

The internship categories below indicate areas of specialty within IPCNY. Since the print center is at an exciting time of growth in its life with a new director, and new exhibitions, educational programming, public outreach, and patron development constantly in development, internships responsibilities evolve with the institution’s needs. All interns assist with general administrative duties.

Graduate students enrolled in art history, arts administration, museum studies, and fine arts programs preferred; prior gallery, museum, or studio experience not required but a plus. Qualified applicants should have interests and skills that match at least two categories below, as well as strong written and oral communication, organization, and research skills; proficiency in Microsoft Office, and basic familiarity with creative software, including WordPress, Photoshop, and InDesign.

Knowledge of the field of prints not required but a plus.

Internships are unpaid and come with a modest stipend; school credit may be arranged through the student’s school. We accept applicants year-round. Scheduling is flexible, with a minimum commitment of two days per week for three months. All interns have the opportunity to attend special events and programming organized by IPCNY, take advantage of our location in the Chelsea gallery district, and receive free admission to most NYC museums.

Internships are available in six areas: Curatorial/ Exhibitions, Registration/Art Preparation, Communications, Media & Design, Development & Special Events, Arts Education, and Archives Preservation.

For more details on each internship, please see www.ipcny.org/about/internships/.

To apply, email a resume and a cover letter specifying at least two preferred areas of interest and your reasoning, as well as your availability and one to two references, with the subject line Internship Application, to stephanie@ipcny.org. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

15. DEPARTMENT CHAIR, PRINTS AND DRAWINGS, Museum of Fine Arts Boston (Boston, MA, USA)

The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, houses one of the richest and most extensive print and drawing collections in the world, containing almost 200,000 works ranging from printing in the 15th century to the present. From Dürer and Rembrandt to Goya and John Singer Sargent, the collection has many strengths, but it boasts unexpected areas of depth, such as a major gathering of rare books, extraordinary 20th century prints, and one of the world’s finest collections of postcards.

Reporting to the Chief of Curatorial Administration, the Chair of Prints and Drawings will be expected to lead, galvanize and inspire departmental curatorial staff. The charge will be to develop an engaging exhibition program, deepen relations with its donors and continue to build, preserve and share its collection.

The Chair will be deeply committed to exploring the changing nature of art museums and their relationship to the public, and will embrace and champion the Museum’s core values – namely that the experience of our visitor is paramount to our mission, strategies and achievements.

The Chair will lead in developing the artistic vision of the Prints and Drawings department, and the development of exhibition and collection projects that are based in the Museum’s Strategic Plan, and which deliver on its commitment to audience engagement. The Chair will work collaboratively with other curators and colleagues – within and outside of the MFA – to achieve departmental and institutional strategic goals.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Minimum Qualifications and Experience:

  • Advanced degree in Art History or extensive equivalent related experience in art exhibition and program planning and production.
  • In-depth experience in Prints and Drawings, including a portfolio of exhibitions and publications that have advanced scholarship and connected with visitors in engaging ways.
  • Extensive senior management level museum experience in exhibitions, installations, publications, and collection building.
  • Broad curatorial experience gained in museums that have sought and achieved imaginative ways of engaging with their visitors and which have met targeted results.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

  • An experienced leader of people, ideas and institutional mission, with a dynamic communication style to engage staff, donors and the public.
  • Demonstrable ability to manage, mentor and retain talent, and disciplined in managing curatorial staff to reach for excellence in ideas, project execution and goal achievement.
  • An international perspective but experienced in becoming personally and professionally committed to an institution’s city, people and artistic community.
  • Committed to collaboration with others to achieve the best outcome, and is an excellent and timely decision maker to move plans and objectives forward.
  • Strong sense of accountability for achieving stated objectives and demonstrable experience doing so.
  • Superior ability to present and defend ideas and projects that earn the respect of other senior leaders and builds credibility for the work of the Department and institution.
  • Evident experience/ability to partner with the Director/CEO and a range of colleagues to develop the artistic vision of the Prints and Drawings program, conceptualize and realize exhibition projects, position the institution externally and realize support and works of art from donors.
  • Evident experience working successfully with senior leaders of an organization to achieve, both their own and their peers’ objectives, including visitor experience, marketing, education and digital initiatives.
  • Committed to supporting and contributing to the success of an institution’s business and financial imperatives.
  • Committed to the training and professional development of staff to ensure up-to-date practices.

Personal Qualities and Attributes:

  • Intellectual rigor
  • Inspirational, passionate, curious
  • Generosity of spirit, a team player
  • Superior judgment, tact and diplomacy

16. ASSISTANT PAPER CONSERVATOR, Museum of Fine Arts Houston (Houston, TX, USA) 

  • Reports to: Conservator of Works on Paper, Conservation
  • Pay type: Full-Time, Regular, Exempt, 35 hrs/week
  • Salary: Commensurate with Experience and Education
  • Benefits: Group Medical and Dental Insurance, Life and Long Term Disability Insurance, Retirement Plan, Flexible Spending Plans, Paid Time Off, Reserve Time Off, Holiday Pay, Museum Membership and Discounts
  • Work schedule: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Work location: Beck Building, a non-smoking facility

Responsibilities: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Paper Conservator in the Paper Conservation Section of the Conservation Department. The primary responsibility of the Assistant Paper Conservator will focus on conservation of a range of paper based items, including European and American art on paper, Islamic Art of India and South Asia on paper and parchment, East Asian scrolls and screens, as well as minor work on photographs. The Assistant Conservator will perform conservation activities in examination, documentation, analysis, research, treatment and long-term preservation in close collaboration with conservation, curatorial, and collections care staff. The Assistant Conservator will also evaluate and track loan requests, help in the creation and execution of collections surveys, and facilitate the daily activities of Interns. The Assistant Paper Conservator will report to the Conservator of Works on Paper of the MFAH Conservation Department.

Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

  • Ability to partner effectively and work as part of a team
  • Knowledge of documentation procedures including digital photography and other imaging techniques
  • Understanding of and adherence to the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice
  • Strong interpersonal and written communication skills

Education and Experience:

  • Graduate degree in conservation with a specialization in conservation of works of art on paper from a recognized training program or equivalent experience
  • Two (2) or more years of work experience in the conservation of paper based items, preferably in a museum or library conservation department setting

Other: This is a 3-year funded position

How to Apply: You can apply online at: http://mfah.org/about/careers, or send your application by email to jobs@mfah.org, or by postal mail to: Human Resources, Job 17-136CUR, P.O. Box 6826, Houston TX 77265-6826 USA.

17. PLANNING OFFICER (CONSERVATION), City of Bradford MDC (Bradford, UK)

  • £25,694 – £29,854 pa – SO1/SO2
  • 1 x 37 hours per week
  • Temporary for 1 Year (Maternity Cover)
  • Based Britannia House, Hall Ings Bradford BD1 1HX
  • Department of Place
  • Planning, Transportation and Highways

This is a great opportunity to work in a thriving City with award winning shopping, parks, nature reserves, historic architecture, museums, galleries and first class leisure facilities, Bradford Metropolitan District has it all.

With 59 Conservation Areas and a wealth of listed buildings the city has a rich heritage including impressive architecture reflecting its former status as a major textile producer; the UNESCO world heritage site at Saltaire model village and historic villages including Thornton and Haworth, where the Bronte’s spent their lives and provides the setting for their literature. The 4th largest Metropolitan District with over a third of the district rural in character.

The city is going through an exciting period of regeneration, following the opening of the Broadway Shopping Centre and the Design and Conservation Team having recently been successful in a first-round bid for Heritage Lottery Funding for the City Centre which will follow the success of a similar scheme in Keighley.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Conservation Team and work on the following:

  • Creating informed and realistic conservation strategies, programs and projects for the regeneration, maintenance, protection and enhancement of the historic areas and buildings of the Metropolitan District.
  • To contribute to the preparation of a range of planning policy documents contributing to the Council maintaining an up to date and effective Local Plan which provides a sustainable development strategy which addresses the districts priorities and meets statutory requirements with regards to Historic Environment.
  • To contribute to the management of the districts historic environment/heritage, including advising on development proposals, providing specialist guidance on the maintenance of heritage assets and ensuring the historic environment is kept under constant review.

You will require:

  • At least 2 years’ experience of planning or other aspect of planning in historic environments.
  • Experience of dealing with complex planning, policy or program matters.
  • Experience of presenting planning proposals or other matters to public, partners or Members.

Qualifications:

  • Degree level preferably in planning or related subject and
  • Eligible for full membership of RTPI, RIBA, or IHBC or other relevant professional organization.

For further information regarding this post, please contact Saira Ali on +44 01274 433971, or email saira.ali@bradford.gov.uk.

Info: https://bradford.engageats.co.uk/.