Beal Family Postgraduate Fellow in Conservation Science

Position Description

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.
Under the supervision of the Senior Conservation Scientist, this person works with scientists, conservators, conservation fellows, curators, and academic art historians on research projects. This position utilizes a broad range of art and artists’ materials collections in the Harvard Art Museums and other institutions, including traditional and modern/contemporary artists’ materials and techniques.
Duties include providing analytical services to the Harvard Art Museums’ conservators and curators in the study and preservation of the collection and document findings.
Fellowship will involve the organization of workshops and symposia to engage others in examining issues related to conservation science research. Position further includes assisting with instrument maintenance and repair as necessary, and training others to use the instruments.
Foregrounding the museum’s teaching and research mission, the Fellow also helps provide content expertise and support for teaching in the galleries and the Museums’ Art Study Center, including staffing Art Study Center sessions approximately three hours a week, participating in a series of art handling workshops, and contributing to a rich offering of public and academic interpretive programs across various platforms.
The Fellow will be an active member of the Fellows’ cohort and will participate in regular cohort meetings, training, activities, and in the annual Fellows symposium at the end of the spring semester.
The Fellow may supervise students and temporary employees.
PLEASE NOTE: This position works on-site at both the museum in Cambridge, MA and a second facility in Somerville, MA.

Basic Qualifications

Candidates MUST meet the following basic qualifications to be considered for this role:

Ph.D. in chemistry/physical science combined with experimental research experience and demonstrated experience of an ability to conduct academic research required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

The successful candidate will have a high level of scientific achievement and a serious interest in a career as a scientist in the museum field.
Experience with microscopy of diverse types, image analysis, and advanced computational skills desirable.
Strong oral and written communication skills required.
Demonstrated interest in the visual arts, record of publication and/or presentation, and knowledge of one or more foreign languages preferred.
Museum or related experience helpful; interest in expanding canonical narratives strongly encouraged
Commitment to fostering the appreciation of works of art in a museum context.
Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills; ability to work independently as well as collegially.
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 apply—even 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. We're committed to considering a wide range of applicants. Please use your cover letter to share your passion for art museums and how you envision contributing to this role. We’d love to hear from you!

Additional Information

Application Procedures:
Please apply online with a letter of interest and a résumé or curriculum vitae. Complete applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, starting January 27, 2025, and continuing until the position is filled.

Apply online via: https://sjobs.brassring.com/TGnewUI/Search/home/HomeWithPreLoad?PageTyp…

Upon review of initial applications, successful candidates will be notified to submit two letters of recommendation. Other supporting documents may include transcripts and writing samples.

Candidates progressing to the next stage may be required to submit additional documents and/or deliver a presentation. All interviews will take place virtually.

Additional Information:
The term of this fellowship is September 2, 2025 – August 25, 2028. In addition to $60,000 annual compensation, the Fellow is eligible to participate in Harvard’s fringe benefits program.

The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines.

This position has a 3-month orientation and review period.