Fellowship at Art Institute of Chicago

A.W. Mellon Research Fellowship in Conservation Science
Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is offering a fellowship in the
Conservation Science Department supported by the Andrew W. Mellon
Foundation in the framework of an ongoing collaborative Program in
Conservation Science between the museum and Northwestern University.

Reporting to the Conservation Scientist, the Fellow will work
closely with the Associate Conservation Scientist, Conservation
Microscopist, Conservation fellows, Conservators and Curators to
preserve, research and interpret objects in the collections of the
Art Institute of Chicago. The Fellow will be integrated into all
museum activities and will contribute to providing analytical
services to the various museum departments and assist with
instrument maintenance and training of others to use
instrumentation. The Fellow will also be encouraged to pursue an
in-depth research project in the field of conservation and/or
technical art-history. Research areas of interest to the museum
currently include the study of modern artists materials and the
development of innovative approaches to the study of museum objects
(in areas such as chromatography, solid phase microextraction, SIMS
and SERS for example). However, candidates are encouraged to propose
a research topic of their interest provided that it is related to
the collections. It is expected that the findings of the research
will be presented at professional meetings and will result in one or
more publications.

The Conservation Science facilities at the Art Institute of Chicago
are equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation: research
microscopes (polarized light and reflectance/ UV fluorescence);
Raman and FTIR microspectroscopy, portable XRF spectrometry, Gas
chromatography/Mass Spectrometry, X-radiography and IR
reflectography. In addition, the Museum has an ongoing collaborative
program in conservation science with the Robert R. McCormick School
of Engineering and applied Science and the Chemistry Department at
Northwestern University and with the Advanced Photon Source at
Argonne National Lab., providing access to advanced research and
analytical facilities and to faculty with a wide range of expertise
in the physical sciences.

The position will offer specialized training and the chance to
acquire significant museum experience for an individual interested
in making conservation science a career, while making the most of
our close connections with a thriving academic community.

Successful candidates should have a graduate degree in one of the
sciences (Ph.D. preferred) or equivalent training. Working knowledge
of instrumental techniques for the characterization of organic and
inorganic materials required. Previous experience in the
Conservation field preferable, but a strong interest for the visual
arts and willingness to explore new areas of applied research are
the most important qualities sought. Proven ability to conduct
independent academic research required. Must have excellent verbal
and written communications skills.

This is a two-year fellowship that will provide an annual stipend in
the mid-$30's commensurate with education and experience, with
health benefits and $3,000 for research-related travel.

To Apply: Please send cover letter detailing relevant experience and
career objectives with resume, reprints of relevant publications and
two letters of recommendations to:

    The Art Institute of Chicago
    Human Resources, MC/046
    111 S. Michigan Ave
    Chicago, IL  60603
    Fax: 312-857-0141
    aic.jobs [at] artic__edu

Please direct questions to:

    Francesca Casadio, PhD
    Andrew W. Mellon Conservation Scientist
    The Art Institute of Chicago, 111 South Michigan Ave.
    60603-6110 Chicago
    312-857-7647
    Fax: 312-541-1959
    fcasad [at] artic__edu

Formal applications and supporting materials must be sent no later
than July 14, 2006.

The expected start date for the fellowship is October 2, 2006.

The Art Institute of Chicago is an equal opportunity, equal access
employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce.


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 19:58
                  Distributed: Thursday, June 1, 2006
                       Message Id: cdl-19-58-009
                                  ***