
Curatorial Research Associate
Institution: University of California, Irvine
Location: Irvine, CA
Category: Admin – Arts and Museum Administration
Type: Full-Time
Compensation Range: $29.73-$32.82
Job Opening ID: 8521
The Curatorial and Research Associate is primarily responsible for conducting art-related research and preparing written content to support IMCA’s exhibitions and public programs, especially with respect to the museum’s permanent collection. The Curatorial Associate works closely with curatorial, education, registrarial, exhibition, and marketing staff to contextualize this research for use in the museum’s exhibition galleries, on its website and in fundraising and marketing materials. In so doing, the Associate helps to re-position IMCA’s collection for a broader audience and integrate the collection with both the teaching mission of the museum and with contemporary efforts to refine and expand the definition of California art. In addition and on occasion, the Associate collaborates with the curatorial team and IMCA leadership to curate exhibitions that highlight the academic interpretation of artworks in the IMCA collection and those on loan to the museum. The Curatorial and Research Associate reports to the Associate Director and serves as the principle point of contact for research related to IMCA’s collection, facilitating access for teaching, research and public interest.
Required:
- Bachelor’s degree in art history, fine arts, museum studies or a related field. Advanced degree strongly preferred.
- Broad knowledge of art history, including American art, Modern art, and Contemporary art, and associated terminology.
- At least two years of experience in a research or curatorial support role.
- Exceptional research skills. Strong command of research protocols and procedures, with a track record of ensuring that research is undertaken according to best practice.
- Strong analytical skills, with the ability and methodology to maintain relevant findings.
- Exceptional writing, communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively address a range of audiences that include scholars, art critics, artists, museum and university professionals, donors and the general public.
- Knowledge of museum standards for collections security and management.
- Experience and facility with collections management software (ideally, EmbARK), as well as Microsoft Office Suite and social media tools.
- Familiarity with contemporary conservation techniques and practices.
- Ability to exercise sound judgement in making critical decisions.