Scientific Traineeship Curatorial Department

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ZKM Karlsruhe is Seeking Scientific Traineeship Curatorial Department

Application deadline: June 30, 2026

About the department:

The curatorial team develops the diverse exhibition program of the ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe. On an exhibition area of over 10,000 m², current developments in art, science, technology, and society are communicated through rotating thematic and monographic presentations. To realize these exhibitions, the curatorial team works closely with various departments and areas of ZKM, including art education, technology, and publications. In interdisciplinary working processes, content is conceived, spatial stagings are developed, and innovative educational formats are designed for a broad audience. Furthermore, the team collaborates internationally with artists, researchers, and institutions in the field of media art. This results in innovative exhibitions and formats that bring together interdisciplinary perspectives and test new forms of mediation.

What you can expect:

The Scientific Traineeship is designed to last two years, during which you will experience and support the content-related and organizational tasks of curatorial preparation and implementation of exhibitions and exhibition-related events at ZKM within the curatorial team. Additionally, ZKM has a central contact person for trainees and offers a comprehensive in-house training program that provides practical knowledge in all relevant task areas of a cultural institution.

What we are looking for:

A completed university degree in art history, art studies, media theory, or related fields of study
A general interest in techno-cultural issues, sound knowledge of the national and international art and culture scene, and a particular affinity for media art
Initial professional experience in museum or exhibition operations
Very good knowledge of German and English
Very good communication skills
Proficient handling of text creation and editing
Good MS Office skills
Organizational talent, high degree of independence, and resilience

We offer:

Comprehensive two-year training program in an innovative art institution, with earliest possible start date of September 1, 2026, or by arrangement
Remuneration according to the collective bargaining agreement for the public sector (TVöD)
Monthly compensation corresponds to EG 13 level 1 TVöD at 50% in the first year and EG 13 level 2 TVöD at 50% in the second year
Modern working environment and the option to work remotely
Flexible working hours
Subsidy for public transportation
Company pension
30 days of annual leave; from 2027 onwards, 31 days
Annual bonus payment

What matters to us:

ZKM stands for an open and diverse society. We therefore welcome applications from all people, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, cultural, ethnic, and social background. Applications from persons with severe disabilities and those treated as equals will be given preferential consideration if equally qualified.

For more information and application details, visit the link below.

Image credits: Via ZKM Karlsruhe website