COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Since 1981 the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology has offered nine-month collections management internships running from September 1-May 31. This internship program offers broad exposure to the operations of a large archaeology and anthropology museum as well as training in collections management and registrarial practices. Interns work on storage renovations, computerization of information, and inventory of designated collections, and supervise volunteers and students working on these projects. Interns participate in a program of discussions, seminars, tours, and field trips involving regional museums. Interns are also required to design and carry out special projects in other departments of the Museum.

Candidates should be interested in museum work as a career and should have a degree in archaeology, anthropology, museum studies, or related field. Experience in fieldwork, labwork, or museum work is preferred. The position requires supervisory and organizational skills as well as problem-solving abilities.

This internship program is funded exclusively by grant funds. Please refer to the University website and AVISO regarding position availability, application requirements and deadlines.

VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIPS IN COLLECTIONS MANAGEMENT

Volunteer internship positions are available by special arrangement with the Museum staff for fall, spring, or summer terms. The intern is placed with one of the curatorial sections (e.g. Native American, Asian, Oceanic) or with the Registrar's Office and works on a defined collections management project. The work schedule is flexible and can range from six weeks to twelve weeks. Tours of various museum departments, such as Conservation, Archives, and the Registrar's Office may also be included in the program.

To apply we require a statement of purpose, a resume, and two letters of recommendation. There is no deadline for application, but placement is generally made at the beginning of each internship term. Placement depends on the needs of the individual curatorial sections or departments, but we will make every effort to match the interests of the prospective intern with the project(s) to which they are best suited.

Inquiries and applications should be addressed to:

Jane Nelson
Education Department
University of Pennsylvania Museum
3260 South Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104-6324
215-898-4277
Email: nelsonjf@sas.upenn.edu