The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is seeking a temporary Research Fellow to support the Missouri Remembers: Artists in Missouri Through 1951 portal through research, documentation, and written content development focused on Native American artists connected to Missouri and the historic Missouri region.

Working collaboratively with Library & Archives staff and an advisory panel, this position contributes to the identification, research, verification, and documentation of Native American artists for inclusion in the Missouri Remembers portal. The role supports the library’s ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen representation of Native American artists and Native American cultural histories within the portal.

This fellowship is supported through the Lilly Endowment’s World Religions Initiative at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research related to Native American artists connected to Missouri and the broader historic Missouri region using archival collections, genealogical resources, oral histories, and other primary and secondary source materials
• Support efforts to verify artist identity, tribal affiliation, historical context, and cultural information relevant to inclusion within the Missouri Remembers portal
• Develop written artist entries, contextual materials, and supporting content consistent with established editorial and documentation standards
• Synthesize information from multiple research sources into clear, accurate, and accessible written content
• Collaborate with Library & Archives staff, project stakeholders, and advisory panel members to support research initiatives and project goals
• Participate in review and refinement of research findings and written materials

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Indigenous Studies, Art History, History, Museum Studies, Humanities, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Experience conducting historical, archival, genealogical, cultural, or humanities-based research
• Experience synthesizing research findings into written content or documentation
• Familiarity with Native American history, cultures, and/or tribal communities connected to Missouri and the surrounding region preferred
• Experience working collaboratively within research, academic, museum, library, or cultural heritage environments preferred
• Preference may be given to qualified Native American candidates enrolled in a federally recognized tribe.

Position Details

• Temporary 16-week fellowship
• Typical schedule: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Salary Non-Exempt
• Weekly stipend/salary: $800 per week

About the Nelson-Atkins

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art invites all people to explore the art in its care, and through its broad collection, the depths and complexities of human experiences. We believe that art has the ability to uplift, surprise, challenge, and transform.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace and encourages applicants from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.