Author: Brittany Dismuke

2016 Research Experiences for Undergraduates in Archaeological and Museum Conservation Science at the Smithsonian’s Museum Conservation Institute
Supported by NSF REU Sites Program
MCI is accepting applications for 2016, contingent on continued funding
Application deadline is February 25, 2016
The Smithsonian Museum Conservation Institute in conjunction with the NSF REU Sites Program is offering short-term opportunities for undergraduates to work on research projects with staff members of its technical studies and research group, contingent on continued funding.  The Smithsonian’s Museum Conservation Institute (MCI) is the center for specialized technical collections research and conservation for all Smithsonian museums, collections, and research centers.  MCI combines state-of-the-art instrumentation and scientific techniques to provide technical research and characterization of objects.
Internships will take place during the summer.  Applicants must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate in a university program or scheduled to matriculate in the fall term following the internship.  Acceptable majors include, but are not limited to:  museum studies, art history, archaeology, paleontology, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, ecology, earth science, chemical engineering, and materials science engineering.  Basic chemistry and mathematical coursework is preferred; laboratory experience is not required.  Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.  A stipend will be offered for a period of 10 weeks starting in late May or early June.
Projects will be supervised by one of the following staff members in their specific project area.  Applicants are strongly urged to contact potential advisors in advance of application.  Students are also welcomed to propose projects of their choosing contingent upon agreement of a staff member to advise the project.
Janet Douglas, Head of Technical Studies, 301-238-1238, douglja@si.edu
Materials, technology, and provenance studies of museum collections; technical and mineralogical studies of jades; characterization of artist’s painting materials and their degradation.
Christine France, Research Physical Scientist, 301-238-1261, francec@si.edu
Analyses of human and animal remains using stable isotope mass spectrometry to determine diet, provenance, demographics, and state of diagenetic alteration.
Gwenaelle Kavich, Physical Scientist, 301-238-1265, kavichgm@si.edu
Materials, technology, and provenance studies of museum collections; characterization of artist’s painting materials and their degradation.
Nicole Little, Physical Scientist, 301-238-1243, littlen@si.edu
Environmental studies of heavy metals using time of flight inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy to determine provenance, diet, and demographics; materials, technology, and provenance studies of museum collections
Odile Madden, Research Scientist, 301-238-1257, maddeno@si.edu
Analytical study of natural and synthetic polymeric materials in cultural heritage (including plastics) using Raman, FTIR, and/or XRF spectroscopies, visible light and scanning electron microscopy, and other techniques; analysis of bone and tooth diagenesis in natural settings and collections.

1. Keats Webb, Digital Imaging Specialist, 301-238-1212, webbekeats@si.edu

Advanced imaging of heritage objects using 2D- and 3D-imaging techniques as well as optical imaging beyond the range of human vision.
Edward Vicenzi, Research Scientist, 301-238-1215, vicenzie@si.edu
Spectroscopic imaging of natural and manufactured materials; mineralogical studies of jades; materials, technology, and provenance studies of museum collections.
Applications must be made on line at https://solaa.si.edu.  Selected candidates will be interviewed by telephone, although MCI visits are welcome.  Notifications will be sent by April 15.

Preservation Services Manager
Center for Jewish History 
Position description:
The Center for Jewish History is seeking qualified candidates for a full-time Preservation Services Manager. This position manages the Preservation Services department which offers conservation treatment and re-housing of archival, library and photographic materials, exhibition consultation, and preventive conservation services for the partner’s collections.
The Center for Jewish History is a cultural institution, independent research facility and destination for the exploration of Jewish history and heritage. It is home to five partner organizations: American Jewish Historical Society, American Sephardi Federation, Leo Baeck Institute, Yeshiva University Museum and YIVO Institute for Jewish Research. The partners’ archival collections span more than 700 years of history and total over 500,000 books and 30,000 linear feet of records. The collections also include thousands of artworks, textiles, ritual objects, recordings, films and photographs.
Reporting to the Senior Manager for Collection Services, this position will work directly with the Archival Services Manager and Digital Services Manager around joint processing, digitization and conservation projects. The role requires a close working relationship with the partner collection managers to determine their treatment priorities, advise on and collaborate in all aspects of collection care; and Building Services for environmental monitoring and other preventive conservation projects.
The successful applicant will be a dynamic team leader and a forward-thinking and professionally engaged conservation manager. They will have the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a rapidly changing team-based environment.  The ability to formulate and implement innovative approaches and solutions to problems, communicate complex ideas to a wide range of audiences, and to speak and write clearly, concisely, and persuasively is important. Exceptional organizational, analytical, and interpersonal communication, time and project management skills, and a strong commitment to the improvement of preservation and collection services will be essential for success in this position.
Responsibilities include:

• Planning and managing workflows through the conservation lab and determining priorities for conservation treatment, re-housing, exhibitions and preventive conservation
• Developing, maintaining and implementing procedures and training manuals; evaluating processes and outputs, ensuring that treatment standards are met and implementing modifications to improve quality and effectiveness; training and supervising lab staff, volunteers and interns
• Tracking budget expenses and materials; maintaining department statistics and preparing reports; maintaining treatment records and database systems
• Directing and carrying out environmental monitoring and preventive conservation activities
• Directing condition surveys on both item and collection level as appropriate, devising and implementing short and long term preservation strategies based on assessment
• Advising on exhibition and loan of collection material to ensure its safety and care, including packaging for transport, security, length of display, mounting, lighting and environmental conditions
• Providing emergency preparedness and disaster recovery leadership
• Examining, documenting, and conducting complex conservation treatment of a wide range of paper-based archival , library and photographic material
• Following best practices and standards for treatments; keeping current about the latest conservation techniques and practices through research and training
• Assisting in identifying grant opportunities and in the preparation of grant applications and funding proposals for collection-related needs
• Supporting staff, patron, and community engagement through outreach activities, including workshops, seminars, and other training for Center and/or external audiences, and social media

Required qualifications:

• Master’s degree from a recognized conservation training program with a specialization in paper or book conservation
• Minimum five years experience conserving paper-based materials
• Experience in preservation project management
• Knowledge of preservation theory and standards of conservation practice
• Experience supervising and managing collaborative teams
• Experience with technology-based management tools
• Good organizational, time management and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to work with diverse constituencies, including collection managers, archivists, librarians, building operations staff, and administration

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience working with library or archival material
• Experience with budget development, and tracking budgets and expenditures

To Apply:
Review of applications will begin immediately. First consideration will be given to applications received by Sunday December 27. Please direct questions and applications (cover letter addressing each of the selection criteria, resume and salary requirements) to:
Felicity Corkill
Preservation Services Manager
Center for Jewish History
15 West 16^th Street
New York, NY 10011
fcorkill [at] cjh_org
No phone calls please. Candidates invited for interview will be required to present a conservation portfolio of projects and treatments, and the contact details of three references.

Painting Conservation
3-­Year Non-­Renewable Assistant Professor
Art Conservation Program
Queen’s University

The Art Conservation Program, Faculty of Arts and Science, at Queen’s University invites applications for a three-­‐‑year non-­‐‑renewable faculty position, in Painting Conservation at the level of Assistant Professor, to begin July 1, 2016, subject to budgetary approval.
Candidates will hold a PhD or equivalent. The successful candidate will provide evidence of: 1) high quality scholarly output that demonstrates independent research leading to peer assessed publications; 2) ability to secure external research funding; 3) outstanding teaching contributions at both the undergraduate and graduate level, and 4) ongoing commitment to academic and pedagogical excellence. Candidates must also provide evidence of an ability to work in an interdisciplinary, collaborative
environment and have experience in conservation practice and involvement in professional associations. The successful candidate will also be expected to make substantive contributions through service to the department, to the Faculty, to the University, and the broader community. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
The Art Conservation Program offers a Master of Art Conservation degree (MAC) in the following areas: conservation treatment, conservation science, and conservation research. Further information can be found at
http://www.queensu.ca/art/art-­conservation.
The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Queen’ʹs is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, visible minorities, Aboriginal peoples, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ
persons. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian Immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents of Canada will be given priority.
To comply with Federal laws, the University is obliged to gather statistical information about how many applicants for each job vacancy are Canadian citizens / permanent residents of Canada. Applicants need not identify their country of origin or citizenship, however, all applications must include one of the following statements: “I am a Canadian citizen / permanent resident of Canada”; OR, “I am not a Canadian citizen /
permanent resident of Canada”. Applications that do not include this information will be deemed incomplete.
A complete application consists of: a cover letter (including one of the two statements regarding Canadian citizenship / permanent resident status specified in the previous paragraph), a current Curriculum Vitae (including a list of major publications), a writing sample, a statement of research interests, a statement of teaching interests and experience (including teaching outlines and evaluations if available), and the names and contact information of three referees.
Applicants are encouraged to send all documents in their application package electronically (either as PDFs or MS Word files) to schwartz@queensu.ca, although hard copy applications may be submitted to Dr. Joan Schwartz, Professor & Head, Art History & Art Conservation, Ontario Hall, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, CANADA K7L 3N6.
The University will provide support in its recruitment processes to applicants with disabilities, including accommodation that takes into account an applicant’s accessibility needs. If you require accommodation during the interview process, please contact Diane Platt in the Department of Art, at plattd@queensu.ca.
Academic staff at Queen’s University are governed by a Collective Agreement (2015-­‐‑2019) between Queen’s University Faculty Association (QUFA) and the University, which is posted at: http://queensu.ca/facultyrelations/faculty­librarians‑and‑archivists/collective-
agreement and at http://qufa.ca.
 
The deadline for applications is January 29, 2016.

City of Atlanta

P.I.-0009048 Folk Art Park Project G-DOT

Posted on Tuesday, November 17, 2015 at 2:53 pm EST.
Bids/Proposals Due
Thursday, December 17, 2015 at 2:00 pm ET
Project Contact Person
Teresa Sword tsword@silvermancpm.com
404.969.4306
Project Summary
The project includes the restoration of existing artwork, landscaping, and art accent lighting.
Pre-Bid Conference Date & Location
10:00am EST, Thursday, December 3, 2015
55 Trinity Ave SW, Suite 1900, Atlanta, GA 30303
Pre-Bid/Proposal Documents

• 0009048 Folk Art Park Bid – Advertisement (Added: 11/17/2015 @ 2:22 pm EST)
• Folk Art Park, G-DOT (Added: 11/17/2015 @ 2:22 pm EST)
• 0009048 Folk Art Park Plans – Drawings (Added: 11/17/2015 @ 2:38 pm EST)
• Art Assessment Manual – One (1) Copy will be made available for review at all three (3) locations listed below.
• SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS: Project Manual and Drawings may be purchased directly from ARC, 640 Tenth Street NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, 404-873-5911. Additionally, the Project Manual and Drawings may be examined at the following locations:
• 1) City of Atlanta Department of Procurement, 55 Trinity Ave, SW, Suite 1900, Atlanta, GA 30303

City of Atlanta

Public Art Restoration Program FC-8463

Posted on Tuesday, November 24, 2015 at 4:26 pm EST.
Last modified Monday, November 30, 2015 at 9:35 am EST.
Bids/Proposals Due
Wednesday, January 13, 2016 at 2:00 pm ET
Buyer/Contracting Officer
Krista Morrison (kamorrison@atlantaga.gov)
404.865.8709
Project Summary
The City of Atlanta is soliciting proposals from qualified firms for the restoration of the City’s fixed art asset inventory and infrastructure.
Pre-Bid Conference Date & Location
11:00am EST, Wednesday, December 9, 2015
55 Trinity Ave SW, Suite 1900, Atlanta, GA 30303
Pre-Bid/Proposal Documents

• FC-8463 -Solicitation (Added: 11/24/2015 @ 4:24 pm EST)
• FC-8463 Web Advertisement (Added: 11/24/2015 @ 4:25 pm EST)
• Cost of solicitation documents:$50.00  (online is free)

Announcement of faculty position in the Art Conservation Department: 
Open Rank, Tenure-Track Faculty Position in Paper Conservation 
The Art Conservation Department at SUNY Buffalo State invites applications for the tenure track position of assistant or associate Professor of Paper Conservation, depending on qualifications, to begin in August 2016.
The department offers an internationally recognized three-year program of graduate instruction leading to the M.A. degree and a Certificate of Advanced Study in art conservation. The position provides a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic group of dedicated and distinguished educators, avid researchers and respected practitioners of conservation.
RESPONSIBILITIES: The successful candidate will teach lecture and laboratory courses in paper conservation and the pertinent history of materials and techniques, with a focus on fine art and archival documents. She/he will supervise student projects and provide mentoring and advisement to students specializing in paper conservation and to those who, within the paper conservation track, specialize in photograph or library/archives conservation. Advisement includes assisting students in obtaining suitable third-year internships and guiding students in focused investigatory projects required during their second year, in cooperation with other department faculty. Although teaching is the primary responsibility, it is expected that the candidate will pursue a scholarly, research and creative activity agenda, as well.
The paper conservation professor will actively participate in the life of the department, including:

• upkeep and maintenance of the paper conservation suite facilities
• managing and organizing the photograph and library/archives conservation curricula
• coordinating with the department’s guest lecturer program
• serving on department and college committees
• participating in department and college events
• advancing the department’s public outreach initiatives
• representing the department/college by participating in professional organizations

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• For assistant professor: A terminal degree in art conservation or related discipline; a demonstrated progressive experience in the conservation of paper-based materials; evidence of a high degree of proficiency and skill in the performance of a variety of conservation treatments on a wide range of works on paper; evidence of initiating a scholarly agenda (publishing or speaking on professional conservation issues); well developed communication skills; evidence of ability to work cooperatively and collegially within an interdisciplinary work environment.

• For associate professor: A terminal degree in art conservation or related discipline; a demonstrated progressive experience in the conservation of paper-based materials; evidence of a high degree of proficiency and skill in the performance of a variety of conservation treatments on a wide range of works on paper; a record of publishing in peer reviewed conservation journals and presenting papers at conferences; a record of service to the profession; well developed communication skills; evidence of ability to work cooperatively and collegially within an interdisciplinary work environment.

 PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Evidence of ability, interest in and commitment to teaching, especially at the graduate level;
• Knowledge and experience with historical and/or modern paper making techniques;
• Knowledge and experience with the conservation of rare books, library/archival collections and/or photographs;
• Advanced studies or research in the conservation of cultural heritage, the technical art history of art on paper, material science of paper, or a closely related area of paper conservation.

APPOINTMENT: Full-time tenure-track appointment beginning September 1, 2016, contingent on funding. Salary is competitive nationally, with excellent benefits.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The Art Conservation Department is an internationally recognized professionally oriented graduate program, offering conservation specializations in objects, paintings, photo, library/archives and works of art on paper. The department maintains close working relationships with the regional cultural institutions such as the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, The Buffalo Museum of Science, The Buffalo History Museum and the University of Rochester Memorial Art Gallery to name just a few. With over 400 graduates working in museums, regional centers and private practices across the country and overseas, the Art Conservation Department’s alumni play an integral role in the preservation of our nation’s and the world’s cultural heritage.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin January 8, 2016. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.  Send cover letter addressing qualifications, teaching philosophy and professional activities, curriculum vitae, list of Internet links to samples of conservation treatments, publications, and other research/scholarly/creative work, along with names, email addresses and telephone numbers of three references to: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu
Email questions to the Art Conservation Department: artcon@buffalostate.edu
Learn more about SUNY Buffalo State and the Art Conservation Department at http://artconservation.buffalostate.edu
A commitment to the mission and core values of SUNY Buffalo State is expected. SUNY Buffalo State is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and particularly encourages applications from women and minority candidates.

Preventive Conservator
Barbara Goldsmith Preservation & Conservation Department
New York University Libraries
www.nyucareers.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=61083
Position Summary
The Barbara Goldsmith Preservation & Conservation Department at New York University Libraries seeks a dynamic, skilled, and knowledgeable conservator to administer and manage a preventive conservation program for the NYU Libraries’ archives and special collections.
Under the general supervision of the Conservation Librarian, the Preventive Conservator will: develop and administer preservation policies and procedures for the proper care, handling, storage, and reformatting of book and document collections held in the Library’s three special collections; work with curators to identify preservation priorities and initiate preservation projects to address preservation needs of collections; make decisions regarding appropriate preservation treatments for the collections; establish guidelines for collection care and use; coordinate with the Division of Libraries Media Preservation Unit Head, Special Collections Conservators, and the Digital Library Technology Services department to promote alignment of project initiatives with other preservation and conservation activities.
The Preventive Conservator will maintain an active, daily workflow for preservation projects between the three special collections; hire and supervise project staff (students and/or administrative employees); oversee orders and purchases of supplies for preservation projects; communicate with vendors for external preservation services, such as mass de-acidification; write grant proposals for preservation purposes; and manage the environmental monitoring program in the Bobst Library, Institute of Fine Arts (IFA) Library, Cooper Square Storage Facility, and Clancy off-site storage facility, which includes reporting findings on a monthly basis to the department head and curators and alerting building managers to issues as well as tracking resolutions. Additional responsibilities are to design and execute preservation assessments and surveys of archival collections; gather and analyze condition data; liaise with off-site and near- off-site collection storage location staff to ensure proper and safe storage conditions for special collections are maintained; participate in the Library’s emergency preparedness and response program, including maintaining emergency equipment/supplies and participating in the training of staff in emergency response procedures.
Required Education
Graduate degree in conservation or related subject area with certificate in conservation.
Required Experience
Demonstrated professional accomplishments and a minimum of two years professional working experience in archives and special collections. Experience must include a minimum of two years’ supervising staff. Must have experience in developing, designing, and carrying out condition surveys and assessments, experience in preservation and collections care techniques, as well as demonstrated skills in basic conservation treatments, such as simple document repair, humidification and flattening, mold remediation, and constructing custom-made enclosures.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of current conservation strategies and standards for the care, handling, and storage of special collections is required. A deep understanding of conservation ethics and methodology and familiarity with archival theory and management is required. Knowledge of current developments within the archives, special collections, preservation, and conservation professions is expected. Ability to work independently and collegially with a wide range of staff and in team environments. Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills and show a commitment to professional issues demonstrated through interest in local or national committee work, research, or publication. Exhibit strong project management, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Preferred candidates will also have enhanced computer skills and will be familiar with XML, MODS, METS, MARC/EAD, DACS and the Archivists’ Toolkit.
New York University Libraries: Libraries at New York University serve the school’s 40,000 students and faculty and contain more than 5 million volumes. The Libraries support NYU’s vision to become the first true Global Network University by collaborating and providing services to our 11 global academic centers and our first “portal campus,” at NYU Abu Dhabi. New York University Libraries is a member of the Association of Research Libraries, the OCLC Research Library Partnership, and the Digital Library Federation. The Libraries participate in a variety of consortia and collaborates closely with the New-York Historical Society and the Brooklyn Historical Society. For the NYU Libraries Mission and Strategic Plan, visit:  http://library.nyu.edu/about/Strategic_Plan.pdf.
New York University Libraries Special Collections
NYU’s Fales Library & Special Collections houses the general special collections of NYU as well as the Downtown collection; the Marion Nestle Food Studies collection; the Riot Grrrl collection; and the Berol Collection of Lewis Carroll. The span of materials includes rare books and manuscripts, photographs, audio and audiovisual media, art objects, scrapbooks, and other ephemera. All aspects of the collection are used heavily by the University community and external researchers, as well as for teaching purposes. The Tamiment Library and Robert F. Wagner Labor Archives form a unique, internationally-known center for scholarly research on Labor and the Left. The Tamiment book, document, print, photograph, film, and oral history collections describe the history of the labor movement and how it relates to the broader struggle for economic, social, and political change. The New York University Archives serves as the final repository for the historical records of the institution. Its primary purpose is to document the history of the University since its founding in 1831, and to provide source material for administrators, faculty, students, alumni, and other members of the University community, as well as scholars, authors, and other interested persons who seek to evaluate the impact of the University’s activities on the history of social, cultural, and intellectual development in America.
Barbara Goldsmith Preservation & Conservation Department
The Barbara Goldsmith Preservation & Conservation Department is located along the east wing of lower level 2 in Elmer Holmes Bobst Library. The primary purpose of the department is to preserve, protect, and thereby extend the usable life of the NYU Libraries’ collections. The department pursues this objective in accordance with the mission and goals of the Libraries and nationally recognized standards for preservation and conservation of library and archival materials. The department is responsible for the following activities: commercial binding, conservation treatment, disaster preparedness and response, environmental monitoring, media preservation, and staff and patron education.
Salary/Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience and background.
To Apply: To ensure consideration, please apply using the following link: www.nyucareers.com/applicants/Central?quickFind=61083
Applicant review will begin on January 4, 2016; the position will remain open until filled.
NYU’s Division of Libraries embraces diversity and is committed to attracting qualified candidates who also embrace and value diversity and inclusivity.
NYU is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Post Graduate Conservation Fellowship – Painted Wooden Objects
An assistant conservator with experience in objects or painting conservation and a desire to explore material science aspects of ethnographic works of art is sought for a joint project between Bard Graduate Center and the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH).  The project involves exploration of issues related to material technology and conservation, and in particular of coating removal and paint issues on the museum’s totem pole collection. Scientific analysis will be undertaken at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, under the supervision of museum scientists. Successful candidates will have a master’s degree in conservation along with extensive analytical experience.   In addition to undertaking analytical work pertaining to the museum’s Northwest Coast collection, the accepted candidate will teach or assist in teaching conservation-related courses at Bard Graduate Center.
Appointees will also contribute to graduate advising and are expected to participate fully in the intellectual life of the Bard Graduate Center. In consultation with the Dean, the fellows will also organize and chair events and guest lectures within Cultures of Conversation. Fellows will receive office space at Bard Graduate Center, a salary of $40,000, and a travel and research budget of $1,500. Housing is available. The appointment will begin 1 July 2016 and continue through 30 June 2017.
Applications should include: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement explaining the importance of this project to the candidate’s professional and intellectual development, sample publication (SASE), and three letters of recommendation. Applications should be emailed to fellowships@bgc.bard.edu. Materials may also be sent by post to: Mellon Fellowship Search Committee, c/o Dean Peter N. Miller, Bard Graduate Center: Decorative Arts, Design History, Material Culture, 38 W. 86th Street, New York, NY 10024.All application materials must be received by 15 December 2015. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Please direct questions to the Mellon Fellowship Search Committee via email (fellowships@bgc.bard.edu).