Conservator, Ware Collection
Harvard University
Cambridge , MA, USA
Full-time
The conservator will specifically :
- Set program priorities in conjunction with the collection’s Executive Committee.
- Conduct surveys to establish treatment priorities and advise on treatment plans and storage and exhibition upgrades.
- Perform technical examinations, analysis, research, and treatments. Remain abreast of current conservation and analytical techniques.
Consult and collaborate with other conservators, curators, and staff as needed. Perform duties in accordance with the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
- Document treatments and the condition of artifacts using online collections management system and digital photography.
- Determine preventive conservation treatments of collections; develop preventive conservation measures and advise on handling, storage packing, loans, and exhibition of collections to ensure safety and care.
Advise on temperature, humidity, and light levels for gallery and storage. Assist with exhibit installations and de-installations and collection moves.
- Inspect and determine condition of objects considered for exhibit and loan; prepare objects for exhibit and loan.
- In conjunction with Collections Manager, understand the importance of integrated pest management : document materials involved in making the glass flowers and document which pests may be attracted to them.
Understand how microclimate changes affect materials and pests. Also with Collections Manager, communicate with facilities if issues arise regarding the environmental monitoring program.
- Develop and administer Emergency Management and Response Plans with Collections Manager and Director of Collections and affiliated Museum staff as needed.
- Ensure that the conservation lab is maintained in a clean, organized, and secure condition to ensure the safety of both collection and staff.
- Contribute to the development of grant proposals, reports, research, and publications.
- Represent the collection by presenting research and conservation knowledge within the museums and externally. Perform educational outreach as requested.
- Train and supervise staff, interns, and HMSC (Harvard Museums of Science & Culture) volunteers working with and educating about the collection.
Ensure that work is conducted in a safe manner. Manage laboratory, work areas, and budgets.
- Assist in data integration into online collections management system and its upgrades.
18 days ago