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Curatorial Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vanderbilt Health

Research Asst 3 - ON SITE

Nashville, TN · On-site

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

As a Research Assistant 3, you will play a key role in advancing the research efforts of the ... Curation of the specimen biorepository, including continuous management and concerted staging of ...

Vanderbilt Health

Research Asst 3 - ON SITE

Nashville, TN

$18.50 - $25.50/hr

As a Research Assistant 3, you will play a key role in advancing the research efforts of the ... Curation of the specimen biorepository, including continuous management and concerted staging of ...

Harvard University

Curatorial Assistant II

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$51/hr

The Curatorial Assistant II assists with the general curation of the vascular plant and cryptogamic ... With their state-of-the art research laboratories and world class libraries, the HUH have been a ...

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Curatorial Research Assistant information

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How much do curatorial research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for curatorial research assistant in the United States is $21.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are Curatorial Research Assistants?

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.
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Curatorial Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Curatorial Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,709 per year, or $22 per hour.
Assistant Curator

Assistant Curator

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL • On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Collaborate with the Senior Curator and Curatorial team to plan, develop, and implement exhibitions and programs.

  • Draft and edit exhibition texts, including labels, didactics, proposals, and web content, and support the publishing process.

  • Lead exhibition-related public programs and tours, and cultivate relationships with artists, curators, educators, and cultural institutions.

University Of North Florida rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department
MOCA, Curatorial
Compensation
$42,000.00 Annual
General Description
The Assistant Curator reports to the Senior Curator and collaborates with the Curatorial team to support the planning, development, and execution of exhibitions and programs under the Arts UNF umbrella at MOCA and the University of North Florida (UNF) campus. This position assists with the care and interpretation of MOCA and UNF permanent collections, conducts original scholarly research, and ensures adherence to the highest professional standards. The role emphasizes exhibition coordination, research, writing, and community engagement to advance MOCA's mission and enhance audience experience.
Job Functions
Exhibition Development
  • Collaborate with the Senior Curator to plan and implement featured exhibitions and permanent collection presentations.
  • Assist with research, timelines, checklists, and logistics for exhibitions, including securing loans and coordinating with the Registrar and Preparator.
  • Contribute to exhibition interpretation, layouts, and graphic identity.
  • Propose and curate or co-curate exhibitions as assigned.

Research and Writing
  • Draft and edit exhibition texts, including labels, didactics, proposals, and web content.
  • Support the publishing process with proofreading, fact-checking, and publication coordination.
Community Engagement
  • Participate in donor and community relations at events, including receptions, programs and fundraisers, serving as a positive museum representative.
  • Lead exhibition-related public programs and tours for diverse audiences.
  • Cultivate relationships with artists, curators, educators, and cultural institutions nationally and internationally.

Administrative Support
  • Prepare agreements for artists, writers, and designers.
  • Monitor exhibition budgets and assist with departmental planning.
  • Maintain accurate object files and exhibition records.
  • Provide materials for marketing and social media updates.
  • Oversee interns and volunteers assigned to the department.
  • Assist with preparing reports and presentations for Board and committee meetings.
  • Support copyright permissions and image licensing coordination.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities
Oversees interns and volunteers within the Curatorial Department.
Required Qualifications
Master's and 2+ years of relevant experience or Bachelor's degree and 4+ years of relevant experience. Or an equivalent combination of education and experience pursuant to Fla. Stat. 112.219.Departmental Requirements
  • Knowledge of, and experience in, the field of contemporary art.
  • Experience in developing exhibitions.
  • Object-based experience and knowledge of best practices for object handling and care.
  • Strong writing, editing, and research abilities.
  • Proficient in crafting persuasive and informative content.
  • Effective supervisory and leadership skills.
  • Maintain discretion with confidential information.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Team environment with frequent group meeting participation.
  • Willingness to work evenings and weekends, occasional travel.

Statement(s) of Understanding
This position requires a background check. In conjunction with the University's policy, this position may also require a credit check.
The holder of this position is designated as a "Responsible Employee" pursuant to their role under Title IX. Therefore, the incumbent must promptly report allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual violence, and child sexual abuse by or against any student, employee, contractor, or visitor to the University's Title IX Administrator or any divisional Title IX Coordinator
Equal Opportunity
The University of North Florida (UNF) is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in our community. In building this environment, we strive to attract students, faculty and staff from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. The University of North Florida does not commit or permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, national origin, or veteran status in any educational, employment, social, recreational program or activity that it offers. In addition, UNF will not commit or permit retaliation against an individual who reports discrimination or harassment or an individual who cooperates in an investigation of an alleged violation of university regulation.
Carnegie
UNF is a Carnegie Community Engaged Institution. This designation celebrates the University's collaboration with community partners from the local to the global level. It reflects UNF's mission to contribute to the public good and prepare educated, engaged citizens.

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