Curator – Community Science

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) seeks a Curator (Associate or Full) to lead the growth and development of an innovative Community Science program both locally and worldwide. Here, we use the term “community science” as a more welcoming and inclusive synonym of “citizen science.”

NHMLAC’s Community Science programs include the internationally recognized City Nature Challenge, as well as regional projects such as BioSCAN, SLIME, RASCals, and Backyard Bats, among others. Opportunities to collaborate with NHMLAC scientists whose research programs currently engage the public include, but are not limited to, the Ornithology, Mammalogy, Entomology, Mineralogy, Malacology, and Herpetology departments as well as the cross-departmental Urban Nature Research Center. This is a rare opportunity for a unique position at a globally recognized natural history museum.

The successful applicant will be expected to (1) expand upon a groundbreaking research program that focuses on the gathering and dissemination of community-generated scientific data that will prioritize community science projects developed in collaboration with existing curatorial research departments, (2) actively pursue external funding in support of Community Science research projects, (3) contribute to NHMLAC’s local community engagement through the co-creation of programs and research projects, and (4) oversee the management and continued development of NHMLAC’s Community Science program including staff. Additionally, the Curator is expected to develop and foster working relationships with local universities and community partners; mentor interns, students, and postdoctoral fellows; and strengthen the NHMLAC’s presence in key professional and governmental networks. The Curator will be expected to participate actively in a broad range of museum activities, including exhibits; education; educator and volunteer training; public communications; media interactions; and fundraising activities. They must have the vision and capability to build a research program that can be integrated with NHMLAC’s ongoing efforts to understand local biodiversity and shape the collections and research in ways that activate their scientific and public appeal. The position requires a PhD in a related biological field. Experience with the operation of natural history museum collections and an interest in collaborating with NHMLAC’s curators in non-neontological disciplines (e.g., geology, paleontology, anthropology) are highly desirable.

This is a full-time position with a salary and title (Associate or Full Curator) commensurate with experience.  NHMLAC is especially interested in candidates whose background and experience have prepared them to contribute to our commitment to engage with and include culturally diverse audiences in the Museum and in the sciences. The NHMLAC values and endeavors to support diversity, equity, inclusion, and access within its organization and communities. Candidates who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), neurodivergent, a woman, a person with a disability, a veteran, and/or part of the LGBTQAI+ community are welcome and encouraged to apply.

The application deadline is December 15th, 2024. The proposed starting date is July 1st, 2025, but flexibility is possible. Applicants should send the following information as a single PDF to Ciel Ramón-Cañas at cramoncanas@nhm.org (include “Community Science Curator Search” in the subject line): 1) cover letter, 2) 1–3 page vision statement of proposed research, 3) 1–3 page statement of interest and experience in public engagement/outreach, 4) 1–3 page statement of commitment to increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the natural sciences, including community science, 5) a curriculum vitae, and 6) the full contact information of at least three references.