Description

Job Summary

Mission

The Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) works internationally to advance conservation practice in the visual arts—broadly interpreted to include objects, collections, architecture, and sites. The Institute serves the conservation community through scientific research, education and training, field projects, and the dissemination of information. In all its endeavors, the GCI creates and delivers knowledge that contributes to the conservation of the world's cultural heritage.

Position Overview

We are looking for an Assistant Scientist (three-year,  limited-term position) to provide analytical and research support to our Managing Collection Environments Initiative (MCE). MCE combines research, education, and field activities to address technical and practical issues pertaining to the sustainable control and management of collection environments in museums, libraries, and archives, of all sizes and resource levels, and in all geographic regions.

Reporting to the Senior Scientist, Preventive Conservation, you will be an integral member of the interdisciplinary MCE team that conducts scientific research into the effects of environmental conditions on a range of cultural heritage materials.

Major Job Responsibilities

You will analyze the mechanical properties of a range of hygroscopic materials under environmentally stressed conditions using a suite of micro- and macro-mechanical analytical techniques. You will also take measurements on works of art and historical materials using a wide range of mechanical and imaging techniques, conduct monitoring of environmental conditions in the field, as needed, and interpret the data produced.

Working closely with other members of the MCE team, you will contribute to the short- and medium-term planning of the project and support the development of research priorities by providing analytical and research support. You will also be expected to present findings at conferences and contribute to the range of publications that will come out of the research.

An excellent benefits package and salary commensurate with experience and internal equity will be provided.

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 write to gcistaffing@getty.edu.

The deadline for applications is August 20, 2021.

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.

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.

Requirements

Qualifications

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

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of and ability to operate a variety of laboratory instrumentation, including dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermal analysis (TMA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), micro-/nano-indenter, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and a universal testing machine (UTM)
• Knowledge of testing procedures for analytical research 
• Knowledge of database programing 
• Creative problem-solving skills
• Ability to work effectively individually and in a highly collaborative environment
• Demonstrated excellent organizational, data management, communication, and writing skills
• Experience working with conservators in a conservation science laboratory and knowledge of the behavior and conservation issues associated with objects composed of hygroscopic materials are valuable in this position