The mission of the Biodiversity Research Center of the Californias (BRCC) is to perform field exploration and collections-based research in Southern California and Baja California with a global scientific perspective; to preserve specimens and associated information that document our region’s natural history and biodiversity; to provide scientific knowledge about the natural history of our region; and to support the Museum’s mission by laying the scientific foundation for its operation and programs.
The Curator of Entomology directs entomological research and collections, helping lead, inspire, and steer research and conservation at the Museum. Candidates should maintain an independent research program, but also work with other curators on interdisciplinary studies and collaborate with the region’s biologists. The Curator of Entomology will be expected to generate data that highlight the Museum’s regional biodiversity and contribute to its conservation. In addition to serving as intellectual leaders of biodiversity research at the Museum, curators serve as the Museum’s face for science, so candidates must be comfortable in all types of public relations. In this capacity, the Curator of Entomology will also act as a strong representative of the Museum within the local, regional, and global scientific community. The Curator will actively oversee and manage multiple staff, the collections and their associated databases, collection use, and promote their utility to the greater museum community. The Curator of Entomology will be a skilled and creative science communicator, generate and co-create inspired outreach, and serve as a content expert for internal and external stakeholders.
The Entomology collection consists of 1.3 million specimens and is especially strong in Coleoptera (30%) and Lepidoptera (30%). Holdings of Diptera (10%), Hymenoptera (principally bees; 10%), and Neuroptera (5%) are smaller but scientifically important. The type collection includes over 200 primary types and 500 paratypes with an emphasis on Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. There are also 15 holotypes of arachnids, mostly tarantulas. Recent growth has expanded the ethanol collection through consistent trapping methods in important regional habitats, including dunes of Baja California, Camp Pendleton, China Lake, Point Loma, and others.
Areas of Responsibilities Include:
- Research and Collections
- Curate department collections and their associated databases
- Maintenance, improvement, digitization, and use of the entomology collection
- Acquire and prepare museum specimens
- Obtain, conduct and manage grant- and contract-funded projects
- Participate and collaborate with other departments in interdisciplinary research and contracts
- Disseminate research in peer-reviewed publications, reports, and scientific meetings
- Apply collections data toward conservation, biodiversity and geographic analyses, or other appropriate research projects
- Maintain collecting permits as appropriate
- Education and Outreach
- Science communication: speaking and writing for the public, students, policymakers and other stakeholders
- Participate in trainings of various Museum volunteer groups, such as the Canyoneers and Docents
- Present lectures for NatTalks, seminars, and special events
- Administration
- Supervise staff, interns, and science volunteers
- Prepare and manage department budget and track expenditures
- Prepare funding proposals for a wide-array of granting or contracting agencies
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Demonstrated experience in taxonomy and systematics or conservation biology of insects or arachnids
- Knowledge of collections care and insect or arachnid identification
- Interest in the conservation of invertebrate diversity of the Museum’s mission region
- Experience in data synthesis, project management, and use of community science platforms are desired
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Ability and willingness to work with colleagues in collaborative and team environments
- Leadership skills to inspire and steer the research strategy at the Museum
- Demonstrated commitment to diversity and ability to effectively work with a diverse range of people
- Experience in outreach and personnel supervision is essential
- Skills in project management with an attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to learn processes, procedures, and information quickly
- Proficiency in relevant computer programs and database management, or demonstrated ability to learn applications based on proficiency in similar programs
- Professional demeanor, reliable, punctual, and hardworking
- A doctorate (Ph.D.) in entomology or biology (or similar field) from an accredited university degree program
- Must be eligible to work in the U.S.
- Bilingual in English/Spanish is desirable
In compliance with the San Diego Natural History Museum’s mandatory vaccination policy, the Museum requires proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 as a condition of employment. Accommodations based on medical and religious exemptions will be considered.
This is a full-time, exempt position with benefits such as health insurance, vacation, 15 paid holidays, free admission into all of Balboa Park’s museums, as well as free admission to the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. Weekend and evening availability is sometimes required. While the majority of work falls within regular business hours, field projects often extend through weekend and evening hours.
Starting salary for this position is $88,400 annually.
Applicants should send a cover letter and curriculum vitae that highlights their interest in the position, relevant experience, and transferable skills they would bring to the role and writing samples that demonstrate scientific and public communication skills to kpelayo@sdnhm.org. No phone calls or drop-ins please.
Position will remain open until filled. Review of applications will begin 15 January 2023.