Internship - National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian seeks applications for a one-year paid residency for entry-level Native American museum professionals interested in pursuing museum careers or those early in established careers who feel they would benefit from a residency at NMAI. The residency may be extended for a second year based upon exemplary performance. A successful candidate will demonstrate commitment to the museum profession through academic preparation, experience with paid or volunteer work at museums or community cultural centers, experience with exhibitions and/or collections research, and/or a track record of community-based scholarship. The Curatorial Resident will join the staff of NMAI s Museum Scholarship group and will be assigned to exhibition development and/or collections research projects under the supervision of NMAI staff of the Museum Scholarship Group. The Resident will enjoy all the privileges and responsibilities of NMAI professional staff and work assignments will be created to assist with the development of professional skills necessary to the curatorial profession.

Applications should include: 1) complete curriculum vitae or professional resume; 2) an essay of no more than 1200 words describing the candidate s career goals for museum work; what the candidate hopes to gain from the residency experience; and why the NMAI in particular can play an important role in the candidate s career development; 3) a letter of support from an academic or community-based sponsor or mentor. Consideration will be given to candidates who can demonstrate how their experience will benefit their communities.

Compensation for the residency will be competitive with entry-level museum appointments in the Washington, D.C. area, accompanied by a living/relocation allowance and a benefits package including health insurance.

Applications for the first round are due by January 15, 2012. The successful candidate will be notified by February 1 and expected to begin the 3rd week of March,, 2012

Send applications to: Patricia Scott, Cultural Resources Center, 4220 Silver Hill Road, Suitland, MD 20746-2863 For queries, email: David W. Penney, penneyd@si.edu