Description

Each fall, the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) offers a two-year Andrew W. Mellon fellowship to support innovative thinking in conservation, collections care, and stewardship. The fellowship may be extended by one (1) year depending on academic and professional experience and Smithsonian Institution policy. This full-time fellowship (40 hours/week) is designed for individuals who have a strong interest in collaborative conservation and are committed to advancing the field in ways that serve and benefit Indigenous communities. This fellowship moves beyond traditional treatment-focused conservation to embrace a broader, more integrated approach. The fellow will:

Implement collaborative engagements
Develop integrated document practices
Engage in collections care and stewardship
Practice preventive conservation
Design artifact displays
Develop project management and decision-making skills
Implement treatment using integrated, diverse knowledge sets
 
The fellow works closely with Conservation staff to develop and implement a research project designed to serve the museum’s Native/Indigenous constituencies This fellowship provides mentorship and resources to help the fellow reach personal, professional, and research goals.
 
Location: The fellowship is based at the NMAI Cultural Resources Center in Suitland, Maryland.
 

Requirements

Criteria for Selection:
Conservation staff evaluate applicants based on their knowledge, experience, potential, and vision. Applicants must demonstrate:
Knowledge of Indigenous cultures or experience with community-based preservation
Familiarity and working knowledge of organic and inorganic materials used in the creation of Indigenous cultural heritage
Ability to execute artistic or conservation practice skills
Knowledge of ethics and practice of community- or collaborative-based work
Openness and interest in engaging with both Western and Indigenous approaches to cultural heritage care and conservation
Creativity, innovative thinking, and critical thinking
Ability to develop a research idea that outlines the use of their funds and how it will support Indigenous communities
 
As part of its mandate for “the increase and diffusion of knowledge,” including the diverse ideas, skills, and cultures of our nation, the Smithsonian Fellowship program does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, gender stereotyping, pregnancy, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, parental status, or marital status.

Stipend:
$50,000/year stipend
$5,000/year for research and travel
$5,000/year for medical insurance assistance
Funding for one roundtrip relocation ticket
 
Application Process:
The application is a two-stage, competitive process. All applicants are required to submit a Stage 1 application form. The deadline for Stage 1 submission is February 18th by 5pm ET. Conservation staff will review applications and select candidates who will then be invited to submit Stage 2 application materials by March 25th.
 
Stage 1 Submission Requirements:
Statement of interest: In 1,000 words or fewer, share your personal and professional background as it relates to your field of knowledge or profession. Address why you are interested in this fellowship and describe how your experience and research will make an impact.

Vision for your research: In 500 words or fewer, describe your research interests and goals.

Transcripts: Provide unofficial copies of completed course work reflecting the highest level of educational attainment.

Curriculum vitae, résumé, or biographical sketch: Submit a detailed, up-to-date document that summarizes your background in your field(s) of knowledge and experience working with communities or artists.
 
Stage 2 Submission Requirements (Selected Candidates):
Three supporting documents: Documents may include treatment reports, publications, samples of artistic or material practice, and/or documentation of community-based projects.

Use of research funds: Describe how the $5,000 in research and travel funds will support your fellowship goals.

Three letters of professional recommendation: References should be from three different individuals—two individuals in the same field of knowledge who can speak on the importance or impact of your work and one personal character reference.
 
How to Apply:
Submit your application through the Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment System ( https://solaa.si.edu/solaa/#/public ) . Finalists will be invited to proceed to stage 2 of the process, which will consist of an online interview and portfolio presentation.