Research Fellow

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is offering a two-year research fellowship in the Conservation Research laboratory. This position is part of the 'Carbon Reduction for Art in Transit (CRAIT)' project, funded by IMLS, and is projected to end on 8/31/2027 (At-Will employment applies). Reporting to the Head Scientist, the Research Fellow will contribute essential scientific expertise to the project, which focuses on researching and testing sustainable alternatives to traditional art shipping materials. The goal is to identify and implement eco-friendly packaging solutions that reduce reliance on non-recyclable materials and lower the carbon footprint of art crates.

CRAIT is an expansion of a previous pilot program, conducted at LACMA, where several crates were tested using different packing systems. The crates were tested with different shock and vibration parameters to evaluate the mitigation of the materials used and carbon footprints was also calculated.

This research fellowship opportunity provides a unique chance to work in a highly collaborative role with a wide reach across the organization, touching on program areas as well as research and collection care. The fellow will have the opportunity to work closely with LACMA’s team and the partners in the CRAIT project to contribute to a groundbreaking project that is addressing pressing challenges in the cultural heritage field.

Responsibilities:

• Research of art crates, packaging system, experimental design.  
• Assists the CRAIT core team.
• Uses advanced statistical methods to analyze data and present research findings through technical reports.
• Presents research findings at professional conferences and contribute to peer-reviewed journals.
• Organizes and manage sample preparation, data, reports, and literature review tasks according to priority.
• Develops strong communication and collaboration skills to work independently and as part of a team.
• Attends specialized training courses and participates in professional meetings and workshops for professional development.

Benefits:

• The expected annual salary for this Los Angeles, CA based position is $66,950.00 subject to change, and the position is eligible for LACMA’s comprehensive benefits package, including pension plan.

Qualifications:

• Master's or Ph.D. in Packaging Science or STEM fields.
• Knowledgeable with life cycle assessments, carbon footprint calculations and vibrations monitor and effect on objects 
• Knowledge of vibration analysis and cushioning curves 
• Familiar with the cultural heritage field 

Interested candidates must submit the following material

• A cover letter expressing the candidate's interest and intention in applying for this fellowship. 
• A curriculum vitae, including publication list and experience with equipment and techniques.
• PDFs of at least one up to three peer-reviewed publications 
• Three letters of recommendation from professional references
• Confirmation of Degree