Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of the American Indian
Andrew W. Mellon Advanced Training Fellowships in Ethnographic and Archaeological Object and Textile Conservation

The National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) is offering two fellowships in ethnographic and archaeological object and textile conservation, funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.  These fellowships are for one year with a possible renewal of a second year. Fellowships commence fall 2010 and include a $32,000 stipend, $5000 travel/research allowance, $2000 for medical insurance, and benefits. Fellows work on the Conservation Department’s major projects and research related to the projects and collections. The current projects include the preparation of artifacts for exhibit at both NMAI sites: Washington, DC, and New York City. The fellowships are located in Suitland, MD (outside of Washington, DC).
 
The fellowships are intended to cultivate practical skills as well as to foster a solid understanding of the contexts of material culture, the philosophies of conservation at NMAI, and the ethics of the conservation profession.  Museum programming involves collaboration with Native Peoples in the development of appropriate methods of care for, and interpretation of their cultural materials, this may include community consultations both at NMAI and in the field.  

Applicant Qualifications 
Applicant should be recently graduated from a recognized conservation training program or have equivalent training and experience. The best qualified candidates are those pursuing a conservation career specializing in material culture of indigenous peoples from North, Central and South America.  The applicant should have a proven record of research, writing ability, and proficient English language skills (written and spoken).  Fellowships are awarded without regard to age, sex, race, or nationality of the applicant.

Application Procedure 
Applicant is responsible for submitting all the following materials in English: 
•	A cover letter explaining applicant's interests and intent in applying for the fellowship;
•	A curriculum vitae including basic biographical information, current and permanent addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses; 
•	Transcripts of both undergraduate and graduate courses of academic study with an explanation of the evaluation system if it is not equivalent to that of the US;
•	At least two examples of pertinent publications, lectures, or other written material;
•	Two letters of recommendation from conservation professionals familiar with the applicant's work and one letter of personal reference.  

All material must be received by March 15, 2010 and sent to:
Marian A. Kaminitz, Head of Conservation
National Museum of the American Indian/Smithsonian Institution
Cultural Resources Center, MRC 538
4220 Silver Hill Road
Suitland MD 20746

E-mail address for inquiries only: [log in to unmask]

Finalists will be invited for an interview and asked to submit a portfolio of completed projects.
All applicants will be notified by May 10, 2010 of the selection committee’s decision.