Medieval Textiles Curatorial Research Graduate Intern

Museum of Fine Arts•Boston, MA

7d•$0 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

The David and Roberta Logie Department of Fashion, Textiles, and Jewelry (FTJ) at the MFA houses a global collection of 55,000 artworks. As part of an initiative to evaluate medieval holdings in preparation for a permanent gallery reinstallation project, this graduate intern will assist in assessing late antique and medieval textiles and jewelry. The role involves conducting original research, honing object-focused study skills, updating object records, assisting with object photography, and participating in discussions on medieval art history. The department aims to support the intern in developing concrete skills for their career goals, potentially including formulating conference or publication abstracts. This internship provides hands-on experience in a curatorial department, insight into museum operations, and participation in the MFA’s “Museum Pathways and Practices” course.

Requirements

Enrolled in a graduate program (in history, art history or a related field), concurrent with internship period.
Background in art history, material culture, medieval studies, Classics, and/or museum studies
Demonstrated experience in original research and writing.
Some previous office experience or related work
Familiarity with computer programs and databases preferred.
Demonstrated attention to detail and reliability; ability to work independently.
Ability to work onsite 20 hours per week, within Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm parameters, between Sept 11 – Dec 11.
Graduate interns are required to attend the following professional development sessions during the semester: Orientation on Sept 11, Meet the Leadership Team (date to be announced at orientation), and Final Presentations on Dec 4.
Ability to attend orientation on Fri, Sept 11, 2026, 10am to 3:30pm.

Responsibilities

Gain hands-on experience with collections, including training in close-looking at textiles through an object-centered approach.
Participate in photography process for late antique and medieval textiles as well as other related photography projects in the department.
Participate in museum-wide conversations around medieval art, including current topics in medieval art history.
Receive training in TMS (the Museum System), a valuable tool in collections management.
Learn about the general functions of a curatorial department via participation in departmental meetings.
Assist with other daily departmental and administrative activities.
Prepare and offer a 3–5-minute final synoptic presentation of the internship as part of the Museum Pathways & Practices professional development course.