Research Assistant, Photography

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art invites all people to explore the art in its care, and through its vast collections, the depths, and complexities of human experiences.

We strive to create a sense of belonging, where staff and volunteers can do meaningful work connecting people to art. We create an informed, invested group of staff and volunteers through shared values and open, direct, and respectful communication. We embrace IDEAS (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access, and Sustainability) in every aspect of our ideals and aspirations, as we believe these values to be paramount to success.

Each staff member and volunteer will embody the institution’s commitments and agrees to exhibit behaviors that align with them. We hold one another to these expectations so that, together, we may know, own, energize and sustain our culture and the institution for generations to come.

Research Assistant, Photography

Location: Kansas City, MO

(Full Time Temporary 2-Year Term Limit)

Hourly Rate: $19.56 - $23.00

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Job Purpose: The Research Assistant will aid with administrative, logistical, and research and writing tasks related to the Photography Collection. This term-limited, two year position will assist with the planning and implementation of an upcoming loan exhibition Photography and Abolition in the Age of Pictures (working title), and play a key role in organizing the production of an accompanying scholarly catalogue.

Key Accountabilities/Essential Functions:

Collection Research/Writing:

• Research artists, sitters, and historical context for objects in the exhibition and permanent collection
• Draft loan letters and assist with organization of catalogue components, including primary
• Draft and proofread supporting publication texts such as catalogue entries, captions
• Draft gallery labels and related didactics
• Conduct other collection research as needed
  
  
  

Administrative

• Organize and maintain exhibition catalogue files
• Obtain rights and reproductions for catalogue illustrations as needed
• Assist with catalogue preparation and production as needed
• Help coordinate contracts, payment, and correspondence related to the catalogue for authors and experts, as needed.
  
  
  

Position Requirements

• An M.A. or PhD in U.S. History, American or African American Studies or Art History
• Preference will be given to candidates with a research experience in nineteenth century American history and the history of photography
• Demonstrated excellent research, writing, and verbal skills
• Must be efficient in using online research databases such as WorldCat, JStor, etc.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with TMS preferred
• Interest or experience in publications and curatorial practice
• Excellent editing skills; Demonstrated ability to communicate orally and in writing, with strong spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and writing skills
• Excellent time management, planning, and teamwork skills
• Impeccable organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail
• Ability to work independently, while keeping supervisor(s) and other colleagues informed about progress
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with TMS preferred
  
  
  

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee will frequently move hands and fingers repetitively while typing or writing. Occasionally required to stand; walk (traverse from one location to another) sit at a desk for extended periods; reach with hands and arms. May occasionally lift to 10 lbs. The employee will occasionally travel to and from the museum to local locations for meetings and events. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Hours/Travel Expectations

Monday to Friday Workweek. May work nights, weekends, and holidays.

0-5% of Travel Required