We are seeking a full-time Conservation Science Fellow to conduct research focused on electron microscopy and column chromatography. This two-year, grant-funded position is supported by an IMLS Leadership Grant for Museums. The successful candidate will join our growing conservation research program, located in the state-of-the-art, 20,000-square-foot Batten Conservation Complex. For more details about the laboratory's equipment, research, and publications, please visit the link below.

The Mariners' Museum and Park - Conservation Science Research

Project Details: 

The primary focus of this fellowship is to contribute to fundamental research and help improve the treatment of waterlogged organic artifacts such as those recovered from wooden shipwrecks. During burial, historical ships spend centuries submerged in a marine environment often surrounded by sulfur-reducing bacteria. Over time, these organisms produce hydrogen sulfide which reacts with the organic materials onsite, forming compounds which can severely damage wooden artifacts after they are dried. Therefore, extracting sulfur compounds from wood prior to drying is critical to help mitigate the potential for long-term debilitating issues. Through previous research funding from a National Center for Preservation Technology and Training grant in 2023, initial background research and preliminary sulfur extraction tests via chromatography on cellulose coupons were conducted with promising results.

To build off and expand this foundational work, this fellowship is centered on scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and column chromatography of sulfur containing compounds in organic matrices. The fellow will work with the Assistant Research Scientist under the direct supervision of the Research Scientist and Senior Archaeological Conservator who are overseen by the Director of Conservation and Chief Conservator.

Application:

In addition to a cover letter and CV, candidates must include at least one reference letter from a scientist familiar with your work experience.

The intended start date for this fellowship is on or before June 1, 2026

This is a full-time, salary-exempt position with a salary of $55,000; applicants must be able to work in the United States.  No phone calls, please – only applicants being considered for interviews will be contacted. 

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Designing experiments, evaluating results as well as writing reports and peer-reviewed publications.
• Experience with microscopy, specifically Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy.
• Experience with chromatography and other separation techniques.
• Familiarity with analytical equipment and methodology specific to conservation science.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Organizational skills necessary for planning/organizing professional seminars, lectures, workshops, and publications.
• Experience in public outreach is preferred.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Familiarity with accepted practices for achieving and ensuring safety in the laboratory.
• Consistent capacity for respectful and professional interpersonal relations.

Education and Experience: 

• The scientist eligible for this position is a postgraduate (Master’s degree) or postdoctoral (PhD) with at least two years of research laboratory experience, ideally in materials science, organic chemistry, sulfur chemistry, analytical chemistry, or related fields required. 
• Cultural heritage related experience is preferred, but not required.  

Conditions of Employment:

• Must be able to pass a background check and drug screen prior to employment.