Description

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion at Getty

Getty believes diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion are essential to our excellence and to the execution of our mission. The Getty community values differences in the pursuit of inquiry and knowledge, mutual understanding, respect, trust, transparency, and cooperation. We are committed to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and includes individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Individuals of color, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Job Summary

We are looking for an Assistant Scientist to provide analytical and research support in the Getty Conservation Institute’s Science Department, as part of the Technical Studies Researchteam, which conducts scientific research on works of art, with conservators and curators, to improve the understanding and preservation of works in the collections of the Getty Museum and other institutions. Your work will be based in our laboratories and offices at the Getty Center in Los Angeles.

Mission

The Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) works internationally to advance conservation practice in the visual arts—objects, collections, architecture, and sites. The Institute serves the conservation community through scientific research, education and training, field projects, and disseminating information. In all our endeavors, we create and deliver knowledge that contributes to the conservation of the world's cultural heritage.

Major Job Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific analysis and research on works of art from the Getty Museum’s collection, including paintings, manuscripts, drawings, sculpture, and decorative arts, which span antiquity through the 19^th
• May participate in projects with other cultural, scientific, or academic institutions to research the chemical and physical properties of artists’ materials to contribute to the understanding of historic technologies, material use, and/or pigment degradation.
• In collaboration with the Technical Studies Research team and scientists from other institutions, identify and apply appropriate chemical and instrumental techniques available at the GCI, with particular emphasis on non-invasive imaging and spectroscopic methods.
• Synthesize data using advanced statistical data reduction methods, summarize the results in written technical reports, and verbally communicate your findings with stakeholders.
• Collaborate with conservators and curators to contextualize your research findings in terms of significance to the work of art, artist, culture, or historical period.
• Present research findings at professional conferences and contribute to the publication of papers in peer-reviewed journals.
• Assist the Technical Studies Research team with the organization of seminars, symposia, and workshops to disseminate our research to the conservation community.
• Prioritize your workload, prepare samples, collect, organize, manage, and interpret data, prepare reports, and perform literature reviews.
• Contribute your own expertise in the development of new techniques and innovations.
• As part of the Technical Studies Research team, you will contribute to the short- and medium-term planning of project goals and the establishment of strategic priorities.

Professional development is encouraged and supported through attendance at specialized training courses and participation in professional meetings and workshops.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or other natural science is required; Master’s degree preferred.
• 1-3 years of experience in scientific research is required, preferably in the field of cultural heritage.

Requirement

All employees must be fully-vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus as a condition of employment. Exemptions from this requirement as a reasonable accommodation due to medical contraindication, disability or sincerely held religious belief or practice will be considered.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Must be able to operate analytical instrumentation including PLM, SEM-EDS, XRF, Raman, FTIR, ICP-MS, FORS, MSI, HSI (and associated data reduction techniques)
• Experience using a range of analytical techniques for characterization of works of art (especially microscopic, spectroscopic and imaging methodologies) is preferred
• Knowledge of artists’ materials and methods, and safe handling practices for works of art is preferred
• Experience in the removal and mounting of samples from art objects for cross-section analysis is preferred
• Experience working with conservators and curators is preferred.
• Creative problem-solving skills and an openness to learning new skills sets
• Ability to work effectively individually and in a highly collaborative environment
• Demonstrated excellent organizational, data management, prioritization, communication, and writing skills

All candidates must apply online. Please be prepared to upload your cover letter and CV/resume when prompted to so by the online application system. Candidates who successfully complete the online application process will receive an automated message via email. If you have questions about this position or the recruiting process, please email gcistaffing@getty.edu.

Deadline for application submissions: April 3, 2023

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status.