Richard I. Shader Fellow in Paintings Conservation

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Why join Harvard Art Museums?

The Harvard Art Museums is part of Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM). At the intersection of public access and higher education, the Harvard Art Museums invite everyone to embrace inquiry, dialogue, and new perspectives on art and ideas. The museums’ global collections encompass a broad range of time periods and geographies. 

At the intersection of public access and higher education, the Harvard Art Museums invite everyone to embrace inquiry, dialogue, and new perspectives on art and ideas. The museums’ global collections encompass a broad range of time periods and geographies.   

The Fellowship program at the Harvard Art Museums is designed to broaden the experience of those embarking on professional museum careers in art history and related fields, conservation and conservation science, and/or museum education. Fellows are integral members of the museums’ staff, take part in departmental and museum-wide meetings, and collaborate with colleagues across the museums. Fellows are active members of the program cohort, participating in regular Fellows meetings, workshops, specialized training, and organized activities throughout the year, including presenting their work at an annual Fellows Symposium.  

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• The focus for the Richard I. Shader Paintings Conservation Fellow will be the examination, treatment, and preventive care of works of art from the Harvard Art Museums’ collections as driven by exhibition, loans, and research needs. A collaborative technical research project focusing on a work(s) of art from the Harvard Art Museums’ collections will comprise approximately 15% of the first year of the fellowship.
• Under the supervision of the Head of the Paintings Lab, the Fellow is an integral member of the staff, carrying out a broad range of activities, including treatment; preparation of accompanying written and photographic documentation, estimates, correspondence, and condition reports for exhibitions, loans, and acquisitions; presentation of research and other projects; lab maintenance; and leading or participating in lab tours.
• Foregrounding the museums’ teaching and research mission, the Fellow also participates in interdisciplinary teaching and contributes to a rich offering of public and academic interpretive programs across various platforms. 
• The Fellow may supervise students and temporary employees.  
• The above covers the most significant responsibilities of the position. It does not, however, exclude other duties, the inclusion of which would be in conformity with the position. 

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work safely in lab and workshop environments, including the use of chemicals and tools, while wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Excellent hand skills and manual dexterity for precise treatment and handling tasks
• Ability to perform fine but physically demanding work, standing or sitting for extended periods while using manual and power tools\
• Ability to lift, move, and position objects weighing up to 25 pounds
• Ability to color match

We believe in the potential of candidates from all backgrounds and experiences. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for this role and are excited about the opportunity, we encourage you to apply—even if you don't meet every single Additional Qualification. Whether you're starting your career, re-entering the workforce, transitioning fields, or seeking the next step, we welcome your unique perspective. Please use your cover letter to share your passion for art museums and how you envision contributing to this role. 

Candidates MUST meet the following basic qualifications in order to be considered for this role: 

Master’s degree or equivalent in conservation or related field.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Demonstrated record of treatment and research
• Familiarity with state-of-the-art imaging tools used for conservation documentation, including digital photography, x-radiography, and infrared reflectography
• Proficiency with computer software, including image processing software
• Museum or related experience preferred; interest in expanding canonical narratives strongly encouraged 
• Commitment to fostering engagement with original works of art in a university museum context, for all visitors  
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills; ability to work independently as well as collaboratively as part of a team 

• Term: This fellowship is a term position starting on September 8, 2026, and ending on June 30, 2028.  
• Compensation: $60,000 annualized compensation
• Benefits: The Fellow has access to travel funding and is eligible to participate in Harvard’s fringe benefits program. 
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Work Location: This position works on site at both the museum in Cambridge, MA, and periodically at a second facility in Somerville, MA.   
• Pre-Employment Screening: Harvard University requires pre-employment reference and background screenings: Identity, Education and Criminal.
• Orientation and Review Period: This position has a 3-month orientation and review period.

Application Procedures:

Please apply online with a cover letter and a résumé or curriculum vitae.  Complete applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, starting January 26, 2026, and continuing until the position is filled. 

Upon review of applications, select candidates will be notified to submit two letters of recommendation. Supporting documents may include writing samples and other materials. 

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 090. Corresponding salary information can be found in the job description above.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.