Project Conservator

University of Chicago•Chicago, IL

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (ISAC) is seeking a Project Conservator to play a central role in a major grant-funded initiative. This project focuses on the conservation, documentation, technical study, and long-term preservation of 282 glazed bricks from the Sin Temple at Khorsabad, Iraq (8th century BCE), a significant architectural element from the palace of Sargon II. The Project Conservator will conduct conservation treatments, technical examinations, and research, collaborating with various university departments. This position also contributes to ISAC's mission through scholarship, public engagement, grant activities, and the development of best practices in archaeological conservation. This is a one-year, grant-funded position with the possibility of extension.

Requirements

College or university degree in a related field.
Knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Thorough understanding of modern conservation theory, ethics, laboratory methods, and safe working practices.
Excellent organizational, communication, writing, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
Demonstrated meticulous attention to detail and fine hand skills.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects independently while meeting deadlines.
Familiarity with museum collections databases.

Nice To Haves

M.A. or M.S. in Conservation from a recognized university program is strongly preferred.
Experience with archaeological objects is strongly preferred.
Experience working in a museum or archaeological collection.
Approximately five years of professional experience as an objects conservator is strongly preferred.
Experience with analytical techniques such as handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy.

Responsibilities

Performs conservation treatment and stabilization of the glazed brick façade from the Sin Temple.
Prepares and maintains comprehensive conservation documentation, including written treatment reports, condition reports, and photographic documentation.
Maintains the Conservation Laboratory, including the purchase of new equipment and supplies.
Operates microscopes and analytical instrumentation used in conservation research.
Performs necessary research activities to maintain the standards of the institution regarding conservation procedures.
Demonstrates knowledge of relevant literature and may attend conservation conferences, workshops, symposia, etc.
Ensures proper outreach of the conservation activities by providing public lectures and presentations for museum education, development, and membership support.
Ensures compliance with the ethical guidelines, standards, and professional practices of the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) and the International Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (IIC).
Writes condition reports and performs other inspection documentation.
Ensures proper handling, maintenance, and return of pieces loaned to University museums.
Applies research and analysis pertaining to collections and external funding and participates in the selection of objects for exhibits.
Has a moderate understanding of the conservations budget and laboratory, including the purchase of equipment and supplies.
Analyzes priority for pieces in need of treatment and operates microscope and x-ray equipment used to analyze pieces.
Performs other related work as needed.