ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Curatorial Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCuratorial Research JobsCuratorial Research Assistant JobsCuratorial Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Curatorial Research Assistant information

What is the difference between Curatorial Research Assistant vs Collections Assistant?

AspectCuratorial Research AssistantCollections Assistant
Primary RoleConducts research to support exhibitions and curatorial projectsAssists with the organization, cataloging, and preservation of collections
Required SkillsResearch, analysis, writing, knowledge of art history or relevant fieldOrganization, attention to detail, knowledge of collection management systems
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, cultural institutionsMuseums, archives, cultural institutions
Typical CredentialsBachelor’s degree in art history, museum studies, or related fieldBachelor’s degree, often in museum studies, history, or related field

While both roles support museum and gallery functions, the Curatorial Research Assistant focuses on research and content development for exhibitions, whereas the Collections Assistant handles the organization and preservation of collections. Both positions require relevant education and work in similar environments, but their core responsibilities differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a curatorial research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Curatorial Research Assistant, you need strong research abilities, art historical knowledge, and often a relevant degree in art history or museum studies. Familiarity with collection management systems, digital archives, and databases is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication help you stand out in collaborating with curators and supporting exhibition planning. These skills are crucial for ensuring accuracy in research, supporting curatorial projects, and maintaining the integrity of museum collections.

What are the main challenges curatorial research assistants face when preparing materials for exhibitions?

Curatorial Research Assistants often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, managing large volumes of research data, and ensuring the accuracy and relevance of information presented. They must balance meticulous attention to detail with the ability to synthesize complex historical or artistic contexts into accessible exhibition materials. Collaborating closely with curators, registrars, and conservation staff, they must also adapt to shifting priorities and last-minute changes in exhibition planning. Excellent organizational skills and effective communication are essential to navigating these challenges successfully.

What is a curatorial research assistant?

Curatorial Research Assistants are professionals who support curators in museums, galleries, or cultural institutions by conducting research, organizing information, and assisting with exhibition planning. Their duties often include cataloging works of art, preparing written materials, and gathering historical or contextual information about objects in a collection. They play a key role in ensuring the accuracy and depth of exhibitions and publications. This position is ideal for individuals interested in art history, museum studies, or cultural heritage, and often requires strong research, organizational, and communication skills.
What are popular job titles related to Curatorial Research Assistant jobs in Virginia? For Curatorial Research Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Curatorial Research Assistant jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Curatorial Research Assistant jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Curatorial Research Assistant jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Curatorial Research Assistant job openings:
Curatorial Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curatorial Research Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Research Assistant, Strategic Engagements

Schmidt Entities

Arlington, VA • On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Founded by Dr. Eric Schmidt, the Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP) is a 501(c)3 private operating foundation tasked with making recommendations to strengthen America's long-term global competitiveness for a future where artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies reshape our global strategic environment. The project is organized into three directorates - Global Partnerships, Technology Leadership, and AI Adoption. Each directorate will analyze AI and other emerging technologies, address how these technologies will reshape their field and produce detailed recommendations to ensure that America is organized to win the techno-economic competition.
The Research Assistant (RA) for Strategic Engagements is a paid, full-time role designed for students with strong communication skills and high-level organization. Rather than traditional policy research, this position focuses on the programming and operational side of SCSP's flagship event, the AI+ Expo. RAs will be responsible for speaker curation, creative design, and communication with external partners to ensure clear organization and seamless execution. This role is ideal for students who want to see how national security priorities intersect with the private sector through the lens of public dialogue and event operations. As an RA on the Strategic Engagements team, you will have opportunities to strengthen your skills in public relations, professional writing and logistics
Responsibilities
  • Programming & Content Support: Assist in curating speaker lists, panel topics, and tech demonstrations that align with SCSP's mission. Help draft compelling session descriptions and event agendas.
  • Speaker & VIP Coordination: Serve as a primary point of contact for speaker invitations, collecting bios and headshots, and ensuring a seamless experience for VIP guests.
  • Event Communications: Draft and edit external communications, including attendee invitations, event newsletters, promotional copy, social media content, and briefi ng materials for speakers and moderators.
  • Project Coordination: Use project management platforms (like Airtable and Google Suite) to track speaker logistics, programming details, and day-of show agendas.
  • On-Site Execution: Provide hands-on, on-site support during the Expo, assisting with stage management, speaker coordination, and attendee experience.

Qualifications
  • Education: All undergraduate or graduate majors and concentrations are encouraged to apply.
  • Technical Savvy: High proficiency in Google Suite, data organization, and project management software. Proficiency in leveraging and prompting Large Language Models (LLMs).
  • Communication: Exceptional professional writing and communication skills for external partner engagement.
  • In-Person Requirement: Must be able to work full-time in-person at our Arlington office January through June of 2027.

Desired Skills
  • Experience working in a fast-paced office environment with strict deadlines.
  • Collaborative mindset and willingness to support the team in varied, fluctuating capacities.
  • Operate as a self-starter, bringing fresh ideas to current processes.
  • Interest in the intersection of American competitiveness and emerging technology.

$22 - $26 a year
This is a non-exempt position.

Apply