Assistant or Associate Curator of Marine Invertebrates

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About the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

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 role

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County 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. The Museum is 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.

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.

Qualifications and experience

Required

• Ph.D., with a strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and competitive external funding
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to engage with culturally diverse audiences

Desirable

• Experience with the care and management of marine invertebrate wet collections

Salary and benefits

Salary ($83,000 to $112,000) and title (Assistant or Associate) will be commensurate with experience.

Location and schedule

Los Angeles, California, with a proposed start date of 1 July 2027. The research program is expected to include field work.

Deadline and how to apply

The application deadline is 15 October 2026. Interested candidates should submit all 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 to 3 page statement of proposed research and collection development, including the application of modern methods and informatics to Museum collections; a 1 to 3 page statement of interest and experience in public engagement; a 1-page statement of experience with and commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in the natural sciences; a curriculum vitae; and full contact information for at least three references.