Associate Curator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Assistant/Associate Curator, Marine Invertebrates

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) seeks a full-time Assistant OR Associate Curator, commensurate with experience, of Marine Invertebrates. The successful candidate will conduct collection-based research in integrative invertebrate biology, specifically overseeing the growth and stewardship of the Museum’s echinoderm collection. We are particularly interested in candidates who can tackle big-picture questions in marine biodiversity science and are able to apply research findings to issues of global importance. This role offers a unique opportunity to conduct integrative, specimen-based research at a globally recognized natural history museum. NHMLAC’s marine invertebrate collections are the largest in the western United States, with strengths in benthic macroscopic specimens from the Eastern Pacific as well as globally. These collections house approximately 12 million specimens of extant phyla, with strong emphasis on crustaceans, mollusks, annelids, and echinoderms.  

The Curator is expected to have and expand an active, public facing, and externally funded research program that includes field work. While research interests should span the globe, the position should emphasize California and Southern California-based studies that address questions in biodiversity science, complementing existing strengths of NHMLAC. Additionally, the Curator will supervise staff and volunteers, mentor students, and develop working relationships with local colleges and universities. Active participation in museum activities—including exhibits, education, community science, public outreach and media interactions, and fundraising—is required. 

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. and have a strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and competitive external funding. Experience with the care and management of marine invertebrate wet collections is highly desirable. Candidates must demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to engage with culturally diverse audiences. NHMLAC deeply values diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, and enthusiastically encourages applications from all people, including those who identify as a minority in science, person of color, neurodivergent, a woman, a person with a disability, a veteran, and/or part of the LGBTQAI+ community. Salary ($83,000-112,000) and title (Assistant/Associate) will be commensurate with experience, with a proposed start date of July 1, 2027. 

The application deadline is October 15, 2026. Interested candidates should submit their application materials as a single PDF to Ciel Ramon-Canas at cramoncanas@nhm.org, including “Marine Invertebrate Curator Search” in the subject line. The application must include a cover letter, a 2–3 page statement of proposed research and collection development (including the application of modern methods and informatics to Museum collections), a 1–3 page statement of interest and experience in public engagement, a 1-page statement of experience with and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion in the natural sciences, a curriculum vitae, and full contact information for at least three references. 

NHMLAC’s values—adventurous, inclusive, authentic, and intentional—guide our work and visitor experience, committing us to foster a welcoming, safe and respectful workplace environment where innovation and collaboration thrive and every team member can contribute their unique perspectives to advance our mission. NHMLAC seeks candidates who are aligned with our values and priorities, and are passionate about connecting science with the vibrant and diverse communities we serve throughout Los Angeles.

NHMLAC is a nonprofit organization committed to fostering a workplace and public environment that uplifts Kindness, Fairness, Openness and Dignity. These values extend not only to our employees, but to our guests, local community, and organizational partners. If you are interested in this position, we encourage you to apply!

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please, no phone calls.