AMNH Curator Opening

Assistant Curator of Anthropology American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) in New York is inviting applications for an Assistant Curator position (tenure track) in the Division of Anthropology. We are particularly interested in candidates whose research relates to issues of general significance in anthropology and who apply their findings to challenges confronting the modern world, especially in the face of globalization, degradation of the environment, threats to human health, political conflict, uneven resource distribution, or other problems of broad societal concern. Although candidates are invited to apply regardless of geographical interest, we are especially interested in those with expertise in Pacific/Oceania. Candidates should demonstrate a capacity to communicate effectively within their scholarly community and to a larger public. AMNH curatorships are defined as research positions: prior experience with museum collections is not a requirement, though would be considered a positive attribute. AMNH curators are expected to maintain a high level of productivity in original research, to seek extramural funding, and to assume oversight responsibility for the management of Museum collections relevant to their areas of expertise. Other duties may include serving on committees and participating in Museum-sponsored exhibits and educational programs. Candidates should have completed the Ph.D. degree before the expected employment start date (July 1, 2011). The American Museum of Natural History is committed to the principles of Affirmative Action and encourages applications from women and minority candidates. Interested candidates should submit the following materials: a) cover letter with name, address and current position of the applicant including a description of the candidate’s research interests, accomplishments, and plans. b) list of dissertation advisors, committee members, co-authors and co-PIs on funded grants during the preceding five years. c) detailed curriculum vitae, complete bibliography, copies of up to five relevant publications (pdf versions preferred). d) names, positions, institutional affiliations and contact information for no more than three referees regarding the applicant's professional qualifications. Electronic submission of all materials is strongly encouraged but materials may also be sent by mail or courier (not fax) to: Anthropology Search Committee, Division of Anthropology, American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024-5192. Email submissions should be directed to: anita@amnh.org (attention, Anthropology Search Committee). To receive the fullest consideration, applications should be received no later than January 30, 2011.

Employer Information:

The American Museum of Natural History was founded in 1869, and the Museum’s first scientific department was Anthropology, established in 1873. The current Division of Anthropology comprises five curators and a support staff of 30. Current curators specialize in North American archaeology, North American ethnology, Mesoamerican archaeology, African ethnology, and Asian ethnology. The Division includes staff members who work in collections management, archives, digital imaging and database management, objects conservation, and cultural resources. The collections of the Division number more than 500,000 objects, including biological specimens and artifacts from past and current cultures around the world.