Biological Science Technician (Osteology), IS-0404-09

Smithsonian Institution•Suitland, MD

13d•$70,623 - $91,815•Onsite

About The Position

The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is seeking an experienced candidate to fill the Biological Science Technician (Osteology) position within the International Repatriation and Domestic Returns (IRDR) Program, in the Department of Anthropology. The purpose of this position is to perform technical work associated with the documentation of Biological Anthropology collections. The goal of the documentation is to record information pertinent to the determination of biological linkages between human skeletal collections in NMNH and appropriate descendant communities, as needed to provide scientific insights for the potential repatriation of collections and for the permanent record of the museum.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in anthropology, archaeology, osteology, biological anthropology, forensic anthropology, or a closely related field from an accredited four-year college or university and 3-5 years of related experience.
Knowledge of scientific methods, technical procedures, and established practices used in biological anthropology sufficient to independently perform osteological examinations, apply accepted classification techniques, evaluate findings, and support the scientific documentation of collections.
Knowledge of scientific and technical literature and other research resources sufficient to conduct technical investigations and resolve identification and classification issues involving biological collections.
Knowledge of museum records systems and data management practices sufficient to organize, maintain, verify, and update collection documentation and ensure the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of collection records and computerized databases.
Ability to effectively communicate orally with museum staff, researchers, descendant community representatives, and other stakeholders to provide information, explain technical findings, and respond to inquiries related to biological collections and repatriation activities.
Ability to communicate effectively in writing to prepare documentation, research summaries, correspondence, and reports concerning biological collections, repatriation activities, and related technical matters.
Ability to organize and manage multiple assignments involving collection examination, documentation, research, and data management while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

Examines, identifies, and documents human remains in collections that may be subject to repatriation.
Develops biological profiles by recording age at death, sex, ancestry, and other biological attributes.
Conducts technical research using existing literature and comparative collections to assist in determining biological ancestry.
Searches museum records, collections, libraries, archives, and other technical sources for historical and scientific information related to collections.
Records, organizes, and enters collection information into computerized databases to support interpretation, documentation, and permanent museum records.
Assists repatriation-related visitors and responds to inquiries concerning biological anthropology collections and repatriation activities.