Research Assistant, 3D Imaging and Science Communication

Field Museum • Chicago, IL

16d • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Assistant will support a team developing a Tiny Animal Scavenger Hunt for visitors in the Field Museum’s Mammals, What Is an Animal?, Birds, and Africa galleries. The activity will help visitors discover small animals that may be overlooked in exhibits and dioramas, using interactive 3D models and interpretive content to explain how small animals’ anatomy and physical characteristics reveal evolutionary adaptations and life at a small scale.

The position is approximately 5 hours per week during the school year, with at least one on-site workday per week at the Field Museum in Chicago. It is not eligible for hybrid work. The assistant receives general supervision from the XCT Lab Manager/Research Scientist and the Curator of Fossil Mammals and has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student.
• Experience with 3D imaging and/or modeling using Blender or similar software.
• Foundational knowledge of vertebrate skeletal and skull anatomy.
• Ability to work independently and meet established project timelines.

Nice To Haves

• Coursework or training in biology and/or visual science communication is preferred.
• Natural history illustration experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Use provided CT scans of biological specimens to create and/or prepare interactive 3D models for visitors to access through QR codes.
• Develop clear, engaging interpretive text for each model explaining characteristics related to the animal’s small size.
• Create a visitor-friendly map showing where to find each 3D model QR code across the galleries, for online visitor access.
• Collaborate with team members and exhibit personnel to plan deployment of the Tiny Animal Scavenger Hunt.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed