Curatorial Assistant Jobs in Needham, MA (NOW HIRING)

• Salary Grade: 053
• Department: Sciences – Museum of Comparative Zoology
• FLSA Status: Non-exempt

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Job Summary:

The Curatorial Assistant III reports to the Curatorial Associate in the Department of Malacology within the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ). The MCZ and the Department of Malacology aim to foster inclusive environments that welcome colleagues from all backgrounds to work in a respectful, collegial atmosphere. Candidates will collaborate with researchers, students, and the public, and we seek individuals who value and excel in these diverse interactions.

• Applies specialized taxonomic expertise to identify mollusk specimens and prepare them according to professional museum standards;
• Catalogs specimens according to existing workflows and ensures the accuracy and consistency of specimen records in the online collection management system (MCZbase), including taxonomic updates, error corrections, and georeferencing;
• Implements new workflows for digitization, databasing, and curation (including inventory, optimal storage and rearrangement, reidentification, and taxonomic update to conform to current scientific literature);
• Verifies type specimens and taxonomic names utilizing standard resources;
• Prepares, packs, documents, and maintains loans and associated specimens in consultation with the supervisor;
• Fulfills digital imaging, microCT scanning, with resulting media provided to external researchers, stored in MCZbase, and/or uploaded to Morphosource;
• Serves as a point of contact for faculty, staff, students, outside researchers, and the public. This includes supervising and training researchers in the use of the collection, responding to technical inquiries, and composing correspondence related to the collection;
• Trains interns, temporary workers, part‑time staff, graduate students, and postdocs in collection protocols, including the proper handling and care of the specimens, use of the database, and instruction on equipment. Responsibilities may also include organizing projects for interns, temporary workers, and part‑time staff within the collection;
• Performs clerical tasks related to curatorial activities as needed in the context of a collaborative and supportive team in the Department of Malacology.

Collection, lab and office setting.

Must be able to stand for extended periods, walk, climb, balance, stoop, reach, kneel, and/or crouch, often on uneven terrain or wet surfaces. Must be able to lift and/or move objects weighing 50 pounds.

Basic Qualifications:

College background in biology or a related biological discipline required. Minimum of three years experience in a natural history museum collection, with a focus on Malacology or Invertebrate Zoology. Education may count towards experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

A successful candidate will possess a bachelor’s degree in a biological discipline, preferably with a focus on Malacology or Invertebrate Zoology, and a minimum of 3 years of professional experience in a natural history collection with responsibilities including mollusk identification, collection database proficiency, photography, and experience with Adobe CC. Proficiency in spreadsheet and database software is essential. A comprehensive understanding of museum procedures, protocols, and best‑practice standards, as well as systematic collections and collection databases, is a requisite. Familiarity with digital imaging is mandatory; experience with microCT scanning is considered advantageous.

Specialized knowledge could include a background in mollusk identification, taxonomy, systematics, anatomy, and specimen preparation (e.g., dissecting radulas, preparing microscope slides, preserving specimens). Extensive specialized experience with species concepts and taxonomic nomenclature, and good knowledge of mollusks, their biology, and various morphological structures for identification, are needed. Ideal candidates will be detail‑oriented, highly organized, able to handle a variety of tasks and shifting priorities, and experienced in working both independently and as part of a team. Ideal candidates will have excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable):
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre‑Employment Screening: Identity
• Other Information: To be considered for this position, a cover letter and resume must be submitted. The Harvard Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) is a preeminent center for contemporary zoological research and teaching. Its permanent collections comprise approximately 21 million specimens of extant and fossil invertebrates and vertebrates, as well as frozen tissues, microscope slides, and other associated objects, such as the Blaschka glass invertebrates.

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard‑designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 053. Please visit Harvard’s Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

EEO/Non‑Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.