Rebanks Postdoctoral Fellowship in Art & Culture – Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Position: Rebanks Postdoctoral Fellow – Art & Culture
Organization: Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Contract Type: 12-month term, renewable for an additional year
Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto is offering a unique opportunity for emerging scholars through the Wendy and Leslie Rebanks Postdoctoral Fellowship. This program is designed for recent Ph.D. graduates who wish to conduct high-caliber research at one of Canada’s most prestigious cultural institutions. The fellowship combines rigorous research opportunities with a focus on public engagement and scholarly dissemination.
Key Details:
- Duration: The fellowship is a one-year appointment with the potential to renew for a second year.
- Compensation: Fellows will receive an annual salary of $55,000, comprehensive benefits, and an annual $2,500 research and travel stipend.
- Residency: Fellows are expected to spend the majority of their tenure in residence at ROM, with allowances for fieldwork and travel.
Responsibilities:
The Rebanks Fellow will be tasked with conducting original research leveraging ROM’s extensive collections and resources, engaging with diverse audiences, and contributing to the museum’s exhibitions and programs. Specific responsibilities include:
- Research and Scholarship: Undertaking research projects that align with ROM’s mission, resulting in publications in peer-reviewed journals and other academic platforms.
- Public Engagement: Approximately 10% of the fellow’s time will involve public outreach, including presentations, workshops, and contributions to ROM programming.
- Exhibition and Program Support: Fellows may collaborate with curators and museum staff on exhibitions and other initiatives that align with their research.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in a discipline relevant to ROM’s Department of Art & Culture, earned within the past five years. Strong research credentials, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential. Prior experience working in a museum or cultural institution is considered an asset.
Application Requirements:
Candidates are required to submit the following materials:
- Cover Letter: A one-page statement outlining their research interests, relevance to ROM’s mission, and how their expertise aligns with the fellowship’s goals.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed academic CV highlighting research experience, publications, and relevant achievements.
- Research Proposal: A two-page description of the proposed research, emphasizing its significance, methodology, and how ROM’s collections will be utilized.
- Writing Samples: Up to three examples of academic or published work.
- Statement of Support: A letter from a ROM curator confirming the feasibility of the research and their willingness to act as a sponsor.
- References: Contact information for two referees familiar with the candidate’s academic work.
Application Process:
Applicants must combine all materials into a single PDF and submit via the online application portal. For assistance or inquiries, candidates can contact careers@rom.on.ca.
Important Dates:
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
- Start Date: As early as May 2025 or a mutually agreed date
About the Royal Ontario Museum:
The Royal Ontario Museum, established in 1914, is one of the largest cultural institutions in North America. With over 18 million items in its collection, ROM is dedicated to exploring art, culture, and nature from across the globe and through the ages. The museum is committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of its local and international community.
Accessibility and Equity:
ROM encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds and is committed to equity and inclusion in hiring practices. Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available upon request.
This is a remarkable opportunity to advance scholarly research while contributing to the public understanding of art and culture through one of Canada’s leading museums.
