Assistant Curator of Invertebrate Paleontology or Paleobotany - The Field Museum, Chicago, IL

The Field Museum invites applications for an Assistant Curator in the fields of Invertebrate Paleontology or Paleobotany. This term position has a probationary period of 3 + 3 years; after successful promotion to the Associate level it is renewable every 7 years, according to the Field Museum’s Policy Statement on the Curatorial Ranks. The start date for the position is on or after January 1, 2022.

The Field Museum's Geology Section has a record of scientific excellence in collections-based research, with current strengths in phylogenetic systematics, functional morphology, paleoecology, macroevolution, history and philosophy of biology, meteoritics, and cosmochemistry. Our Fossil Invertebrate and Paleobotany collections are world class. The Fossil Invertebrate collection is focused on the Paleozoic of the Midwest with significant collections of the Pennsylvanian Mazon Creek Lagerstätte, Devonian fossils from the Falls of the Ohio area, Silurian reef fossils from the Chicago area, and Paleozoic echinoderms. The Paleobotany Collection contains significant holdings of Late Carboniferous fossil plants preserved as compression-adpressions, permineralized peats, and within sideritic concretions. Cretaceous through Paleogene floras are well-represented, including angiosperm mesofossil assemblages from the Upper Cretaceous Raritan and Magothy Formations. Substantial fossil palynological collections and comparative extant pollen and spore preparations are also housed within the Collection.

We are seeking a collegial individual with strong communication skills who conducts innovative, integrative research that will complement and broaden the section’s strengths. The successful candidate will be expected to maintain an externally funded field and/or laboratory research program, to contribute to building and using the Invertebrate Paleontology or Paleobotany collections, and to participate in Museum exhibition, public outreach and education, and programmatic efforts. We particularly value a commitment to equity and inclusion in the context of museum-based research, curation, education, and outreach. Close relationships with local universities provide opportunities for participation in graduate and undergraduate training. A Ph.D. in a relevant discipline must be held by the start of employment.

To apply and for inquiries, please email: paleontology-search2021@fieldmuseum.org. 

Applications should include: 

1. a Curriculum Vitae
2. a statement of research interests and career objectives
3. a statement describing experience in and/or vision for increasing diversity and inclusion in a museum setting
4. names and contact information for three people from whom letters of recommendation may be sought
5. copies of up to five relevant publications in PDF format. 

Review of applications will begin on March 15, 2021.

The Field Museum is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in science, and strives to create a working environment that is free of sexual, racial, and ethnic discrimination, and that promotes human dignity among all staff. As such, it is the policy of the Field Museum to hire without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation. The Field Museum strives to ensure that our career website is accessible to all, including individuals with disabilities. Email us at accessibility@fieldmuseum.org if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our online application as a result of your disability.

Postdoctoral Research Scientist wanted at the Field Museum- Vertebrate Paleontology

The Field Museum (Chicago, IL) seeks two postdoctoral scholars working in vertebrate paleontology, with a focus on archosaur paleobiology and evolution. Successful candidates will have a PhD in earth or life sciences or in a related discipline, and are expected to have a track record of publication and grant writing. Demonstrated experience working with three-dimensional data generated through scanning of fossils is desirable. The postdoctoral scientists will work directly with Dr. Peter Makovicky to conduct research on dinosaur evolution and paleobiology, and will also collaborate with Dr. Makovicky and staff in the Exhibit department on the creation of exhibits related to dinosaurs. For more information, please contact Dr. Peter Makovicky.

Each postdoctoral scientist will be employed by the Museum on a 12-month term, with benefits. The term for each position is up to two years with a review of performance after the first year. Review of applications will begin immediately and will conclude when both position are filled. To apply please send a statement of research interests and experience, a curriculum vitae including publications list, and names of three referees (with e-mail addresses) to: Peter Makovicky, Earth Sciences Section, The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lakeshore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605-2496 USA; e-mail: pmakovicky@fieldmuseum.org; phone: (312) 665-7633.

For more information, go to: www.fieldmuseum.org/about/careers