Position at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Scientist-in-Charge
The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the world's finest museums,
seeks an accomplished professional to direct the analysis and
research of the Science Group in support of the Museum's
conservation and curatorial departments. The Science Group will be
administered separately from but physically integrated with the four
principal conservation departments: Objects Conservation, Paper
Conservation, Painting Conservation and Textile Conservation.

Responsibilities/Duties: The Scientist-in-Charge will oversee five
or more research scientists whose work entails the analysis and
characterization of the materials of which works of art are made and
which are found on works of art, as well as research relevant to
their preservation and technology. Instrumentation will be available
for a variety of analytical methods: x-ray, diffraction, x-ray
fluorescence spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier
transform infrared spectrometry, gas chromatography/mass
spectrometry, optical microscopy, and Raman microprobe spectrometry.
The Scientist-in-Charge will work with conservators and curators to
establish priorities for analytical services and research projects,
including testing materials. He/she will oversee the maintenance and
replacement of analytical equipment, work with members of the
conservation departments in the acquisition of new equipment, and
also oversee its use and the interpretation of the data acquired.

The Scientist-in-Charge will serve as liaison when necessary between
members of the Science Group and curators to facilitate
communication. As administrator, the incumbent will be responsible
for the allocation of resources and the formulation of the operating
budget. He/she will also have time to conduct his or her own
research pertinent to the Museum's collection.

Requirements/Qualifications: PhD in organic chemistry, materials
science, or other physical science discipline. Several years of
museum-based experience in the scientific study of works of art,
with a demonstrated history of independent research and publication
relating to their preservation and technology. Proficiency in
laboratory methods and the use of analytical instrumentation as
relating to conservation. Ability to manage staff and resources and
to communicate with professionals within and outside the field. An
important requisite is an interest in an integrated approach to
scientific studies relating to works of art, involving active and
collegial participation by curators, conservators, and scientists.

Application Deadline: April 1, 2003

Please direct all inquiries and resumes to:

    Peggy Saldok
    Manager of Employment Strategies
    The Metropolitan Museum of Art
    1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028
    212-570-3839
    Fax: 212-650-2968
    peggy.saldok [at] metmuseum__org

Equal Opportunity Employer


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                  Conservation DistList Instance 16:46
                 Distributed: Friday, January 31, 2003
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