Research Assistant

Museum Associates•Los Angeles, CA

9d•$0 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

Reporting to the Curator and Department Head, Wallis Annenberg Photography Department, the Research Assistant will support the research, preparation, and coordination of the exhibition Why We Play: Sport, Art, and the Shaping of Modern Society, tentatively scheduled to open at LACMA in May 2028. The Research Assistant will also collaborate closely with an external co-curator to support exhibition development and related research initiatives. This is a term-limited position through June 30, 2027.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Art History, Design History, Visual Studies, Film/Media Studies, or a related field
At least one year of administrative and/or research experience, preferably in a museum setting
Must be detail-oriented with strong organizational skills

Nice To Haves

Expertise in the history of sport and visual culture is a plus
Experience with Google Workspace software and TMS or other museum collection software is a plus

Responsibilities

Conducts primary and secondary source research to identify and evaluate potential objects for exhibition checklists, including archival image and film research.
Visits Southern California archives, libraries, and research institutions as needed to gather and verify information for exhibition projects.
Manages the exhibition checklist and storyboards to track exhibition developments and artwork information.
Corresponds with artists and lenders to confirm object details and display requirements
Schedules appointments with artists, scholars, and research institutions
Compiles documents and drafts texts for curators, lenders, potential venues, funders, and other stakeholders
Compiles and contributes to exhibition wall texts and other interpretive materials
Assists with rights and reproductions
Coordinates with other museum departments such as registration, publications, conservation, and exhibition design to facilitate exhibition and catalogue planning