Opportunities
Careers
Director of Research
The Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS) is seeking candidates for the position of Director of Research at its museum and research center located in Washington CT. Under the general supervision of the Assistant Executive Director, the Director of Research will be responsible for maintaining and enhancing IAIS’ reputation as a major research center of archaeological and ethnohistorical research by overseeing research conducted outside and within IAIS’ collections and archives. Duties of this position include but are not limited to, promoting beneficial relations with Native American communities; actively promoting IAIS through public lectures and publications; and generating good will and interest in our facility by diligently responding to all research and collections-related email and phone inquiries. Additionally, the Director of Research will disseminate findings through public outreach, professional presentations, publications, and exhibits. In addition, the Director of Research will consult on the research, development, and implementation of IAIS museum exhibits, education programs and public programs, and take part in appropriate staff meetings and Board of Trustees affiliated committees.
This position requires:
- Ph.D. in Archaeology, Anthropology, History or related field, with a focus on Indigenous peoples and histories of Northeastern North America
- Specialized knowledge of Northeast Native American Indian cultures (contemporary and historic)
- Understanding and management of NAGPRA-related legal and appropriation matters
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Submit inquiries and applications to [email protected]
Volunteer
Like most small non-profit organizations, IAIS is always looking for dedicated volunteers. We are in the unique position of being able to offer interested parties a wide variety of fields in which to volunteer. Whether your interests lie in archaeology, education, graphic design, grounds maintenance or just lending a helping hand…IAIS is the place for you!
Research Internships
The Institute for American Indian Studies is a 501(c)3 Non-profit museum and research center. Through discovery and education, IAIS preserves the vitality, knowledge, and diverse, traditions of Native American Peoples with a specialization in Eastern Woodland Cultures.
Experience & Expectations
Interns accepted into the IAIS Internship Program will be given a professional and engaging experience to work under the direct super vision of museum staff. All work and performance will be reviewed by supervising staff with feedback and guidance provided to the Intern. An internship at IAIS is a unique and excellent short-term opportunity for those interested in gaining experience and contacts within the professional museum, archaeological, and Native American communities.
Interns are expected to work with staff to develop and complete a personalized project within listed opportunities, summarize their findings, and turn in the final summary of their experience in at the end of their time at the IAIS. Presenting any work completed during the internship at outside conferences, with approval from the IAIS Collections Committee and/or the Executive Director, is encouraged.
Application & Eligibility
Applicants must be currently enrolled in a college or high school program. Internship applicants must submit a copy of their CV or resume as well as their responses to the Internship Questions. If you are not currently enrolled in a degree program IAIS would still like you to be involved, please fill out the volunteer application on the IAIS website.
Scheduling will be determined by mutual agreement by both the IAIS staff and the intern.
In response to the current Novel Corona Virus (COVID -19) social distancing requirements, IAIS will be offering primarily remote internships. Traditional in person internships will be opened up when both staff and intern safety can be ensured in keeping with state and CDC guidelines. Internships have been separated into two types – Remote and Traditional, with many opportunities available remotely.
Traditional Internships
Archaeological Collections Internship
Interns will be assigned a specific archaeological collection(s) and associated files to examine, interpret, and identify artifacts to their ability with the assistance of the Director of Research and Collections as well as other Collections staff members. Interns will be instructed in use of Past Perfect Museum Software (PP5), IAIS’ collections database software.
Interns will need to possess strong organizational skills, a basic understanding of archaeological excavation techniques, and attention to detail. Interns will be expected to write a report discussing the contents of the collection and their interpretation of the site, based on their analysis of the artifacts and excavation documentation as well as perusal of any previously written descriptions, reports, and publications concerning the site and its material remains. All papers, notes, etc. generated by the intern are to be incorporated into the site file stored at IAIS and used as a reference for future research and collections work.
A candidate should have experience, or want to gain knowledge, in basic artifact identification, archaeological knowledge, proficiency with Microsoft Office, the ability to work independently as well as with others, and be willing to learn.
Ethnobotanical Collection Internship
Interns will assist in the continuing cataloging of IAIS’ extensive ethnobotanical collection, ensuring that each specimen is properly identified with all appropriate information and correctly preserved. All of the specimens will be entered into the PastPerfect Museum Software (PP5) for easy, digital access. Interns will be instructed in how to properly use the PP5. Interns will also be instructed in the proper photographic techniques for cataloging specimens.
Applicants should possess strong organizational skills, excellent writing skills, an avid interest in botany, and an ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
UConn Extension Master Gardener Internship
In partnership with the UConn Extention Master Gardener Program, IAIS is an official internship/volunteer site for those seeking to become a Certified Master Gardener.
For more information about the Certified Master Gardener program and how you can take courses through UCTMG, visit their website.
Environmental Education
Interns will be responsible for working with the education department to develop lesson plans and programs incorporating Traditional Environmental Knowledge. The Institute is near a river and on 15-acres of temperate woodlands. Interns may also be tasked with leading school programs or public tours.
Experience with children is not necessary but is preferential. Applicants should possess strong public speaking skills, the ability to be flexible and alter plans, and be able to work independently as well as with others.
Museum Education
Interns will be responsible for leading school programs as well as tours for the public in order to learn how museum education is primarily conducted. Interns may be asked to assist in researching or coming up with program lessons that tailor to their areas of expertise.
Experience with children is not necessary but is preferential. Applicants should possess strong public speaking skills, the ability to be flexible and alter plans, and be able to work independently as well as with others.
Museum Studies
Interns will assist in collections duties such as cataloging objects, exhibit maintenance, and environmental monitoring. Interns will also assist in researching and installing exhibits, leading tours, and other aspects of the museum.
Applicants should have experience, or want to gain knowledge, in basic artifact identification, archeological knowledge, proficiency with Microsoft Office, strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work independently as well as with others.