Conservation Fellow

The Indiana Historical Society is offering a ten-month Samuel H. Kress Conservation Fellowship starting September 2024. The fellow will focus on the care and conservation of paper-based collections, conducting condition surveys, performing treatments, and educating staff and the public about conservation practices. The role requires knowledge of conservation theory and practices, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
About the position

The Indiana Historical Society is excited to announce the availability of the Samuel H. Kress Conservation Fellowship, a ten-month appointment commencing in September 2024. This fellowship is made possible through the generous support of the Samuel H. Kress Foundation and is administered by the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation. The Kress Fellow will play a vital role in the physical care, preservation, and conservation treatment of the Indiana Historical Society (IHS) Collection, as well as selections from The Remnant Trust collection. This includes a diverse array of paper-based special collections and archival materials, which require specialized knowledge and skills in conservation practices. The fellow will be responsible for conducting condition surveys on works on paper and photographs, which will aid in identifying and recommending both current and future preservation needs. The role involves performing a broad range of treatments and maintaining AIC-compliant documentation for all materials treated. In collaboration with department staff, the fellow will examine, analyze, and provide consultation regarding rare materials and their appropriate use. Additionally, the fellow will participate in environmental monitoring, pest management, and disaster planning to ensure the integrity of the collections. An important aspect of this fellowship is the educational component, where the fellow will engage in educating in-house staff, outside groups, and the wider public about conservation practices and the significance of preserving cultural heritage. Other duties may be assigned as necessary, contributing to the overall mission of the Indiana Historical Society in preserving its valuable collections.

Responsibilities
• Perform condition surveys on works on paper and photographs to identify and recommend preservation needs.
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• Conduct a broad range of treatments and maintain AIC-compliant documentation for materials.
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• Examine, analyze, and provide consultation regarding rare materials and their use in consultation with department staff.
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• Participate in environmental monitoring, pest management, and disaster planning.
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• Provide statistical information as needed.
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• Educate in-house staff, outside groups, and the public about conservation practices and the importance of preservation.
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• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements
• Thorough knowledge of conservation theory, principles, practices, and ethics related to books, photographs, and paper-based materials in a special collections and archival setting.
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• Knowledge of the chemical and physical properties of books/paper and an understanding of the causes of deterioration.
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• Ability to perform complex conservation treatments on a broad range of paper-based collections.
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• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaborate effectively with other staff members.
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• Demonstrated computer and related technology skills.
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• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Nice-to-haves

Benefits
• Salary of $34,000 ($1,700 per semi-monthly pay less applicable taxes and deductions).
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• Health, dental, life, and short/long-term disability coverage.
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• Employer and employee funded retirement plans with American United Life - OneAmerica.
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• Employee assistance program (EAP).
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• Pre-Paid Legal Services.
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• Flexible benefits.
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• Generous paid time off.
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• Free parking provided nearby.
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• Staff discounts in the Basile History Market and the Stardust Café.
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• Reciprocal benefits at other cultural institutions.