Career Center

The Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) is seeking to hire a Curatorial Assistant II to support a 3-year NSF-funded Collections in Support of Biological Research (CSBR) grant entitled Preserving the genomes of the type specimens in the MCZ (2.5 years remaining). Reporting to the Assistant Director of Collections Operations, the main purpose of this position is to subsample tissues and cryo-preserve primary types hosted in the museum collections.

Job specific responsibilities include:

• Prepare barcoded vials and subsample tissue from valuable type specimens stored in various collections throughout the MCZ.
• Create specifically formatted spreadsheets with relevant tissue data (e.g., catalog number, tissue type, preservation method, barcode number) to allow easy data uploads of tissue part information into MCZ-wide collection database using database batch tools.
• Incorporate tissue data into MCZbase by bulkloading data amassed in spreadsheets to allow new tissue sample information to be added to previously cataloged specimen records.
• Track location data of barcoded samples in MCZ-wide collection database by scanning barcoded samples into positions within barcoded boxes in MCZbase; physically transfer the barcoded boxes to the Cryogenic Collection for long-term storage by placing them within racks inside the liquid nitrogen cryovat after assigning the barcoded boxes to a designated position in the rack in MCZbase.
• Discuss and determine departmental protocols for subsampling from rare preparation types (currently not included within the comprehensive written procedures for tissue subsampling) given previous knowledge of dissection and training provided by the Curatorial Associate of the relevant collection.

To be considered for this position, you must submit a resume and cover letter.

Please note: this is a one-year term position with a possibility of an extension based on funding and performance. Harvard University will not provide visa sponsorship for this position.

***All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

With rich collections comprised of more than 21 million extant and fossil invertebrate and vertebrate specimens, the Museum of Comparative Zoology (MCZ) at Harvard University has been a center for research and education focused on advancing evolutionary biology and biodiversity science since its founding in 1859.

Harvard offers an outstanding benefits package including:

• Time Off: 3- 4 weeks paid vacation, paid holiday break, 12 paid sick days, 12.5 paid holidays, and 3 paid personal days per year.
• Medical/Dental/Vision: We offer a variety of excellent medical plans, dental & vision plans, all coverage begins as of your start date.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive tuition assistance program, $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and discounted options through participating Harvard grad schools.
• Transportation: Harvard offers a 50% discounted MBTA pass as well as additional options to assist employees in their daily commute.
• Wellness Options: Harvard offers programs and classes at little or no cost, including stress management, massages, nutrition, meditation and complimentary health services.
• Harvard access to athletic facilities, libraries, campus events and many discounts throughout metro Boston.

High School Diploma or equivalent required, in addition to 1+ years of experience of working in a natural history museum collection, or a minimum of a bachelor's degree with coursework in biology or other closely related fields (e.g., zoology). Experience with data processing, spreadsheet and database software.

BA/BS in biology or museum studies preferred. Ideal candidate will have collections-related experience, including practical knowledge of museum best practices and procedures. Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet and database software, and collection database management programs (e.g., MCZbase) required. Candidate needs to possess methodical, precise work habits, a strong attention to detail. Excellent communication skills. Able to work independently with minimal supervision as well as part of a team. Preferred candidates will have experience working in a laboratory environment, specifically with biological samples.