Harvard University
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
60950BR
Job Summary
The Curatorial Assistant III performs a wide range of curatorial duties in the Vertebrate Paleontology Collection. Reports to the Curatorial Associate in Vertebrate Paleontology, and priorities are set in conjunction with the MCZ’s Director of Collections Operations and faculty Curator(s). The Museum of Comparative Zoology and the Department of Vertebrate Paleontology aim to be inclusive environments that welcome colleagues of all backgrounds to work in a respectful and collegial environment. Candidates will interact with researchers, students and the public, and we seek candidates that value all these interactions.
Position Description
Catalogs specimens and performs data cleanup and quality control pertaining to specimens and transactions in MCZbase. Performs specific and in-depth identification of specimens. Updates collection indices as necessary. Prepares, packs, documents, and maintains loans and associated specimens in consultation with supervisor. Also with Curatorial Associate, prepares, files, and tracks import/export process in coordination with international customs authorities. Develops and implements new workflows for digitization, databasing, and curation. Assists in specimen/object conservation and maintenance and executes related duties as assigned by Curatorial Associate; may assist in fossil preparation. Responds to technical inquiries from Harvard and external researchers. Answers pertinent correspondence in consultation with Curatorial Associate. Assists research visitors, Harvard students, and postdocs with access to collections and department library and assists HMSC and Ernst Mayr Library with object selection, installation, and disassembling exhibits for public display. Trains and organizes projects for interns and temporary staff, monitoring progress and providing feedback. Meets with curator and staff regularly.
Basic Qualifications
College coursework in vertebrate paleontology, geology or biology required. Minimum of three years of collection experience required, including experience with spreadsheet and database software. Education may count towards years of experience.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
Master’s degree in geology, biology, or museum studies preferred. Degree focus in vertebrate paleontology preferred. Experience with collection databases, museum specimen imaging software and equipment, and photo editing software required. Familiarity with scientific literature relating to geology (emphasis on paleontology). Knowledge of taxonomic nomenclature is preferred. Proficiency with computer software (e.g., Word, Excel, internet browsers). Must be detail oriented. Ability to work independently and part of a team. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Experience mentoring student workers/interns preferred. Strong presentation skills preferred.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to stand for extended periods, walk, climb or balance, stoop, reach, kneel and/or crouch, often on uneven terrain or wet surfaces. Must be able to lift and/or move objects weighing 50 pounds.
Working Conditions
Office and museum collection settings. Occasionally, fossil preparation lab setting.
Harvard University COVID Policy
The University requires all Harvard community members to be fully vaccinated (primary series) against COVID, as detailed in Harvard’s Vaccine & Booster Information. Individuals may claim exemption from the vaccine requirement for medical or religious reasons. More information regarding the University’s COVID vaccination requirement, exemptions, and verification of vaccination status may be found at the University’s “COVID-19 Vaccine Information” webpage: http://www.harvard.edu/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine-information/.
Details and to Apply
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