NAGPRA Curatorial Research Associate

Overview

Under the guidance of the Chair for Provenance, the NAGPRA Curatorial Research Associate supports the MFA Boston's efforts to comply with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) by assisting in the responsible care and cataloging of the museum's Native American artifacts.

Key Duties

• Collaborate with curatorial and conservation teams to ensure that items governed under NAGPRA duty of care are properly managed and preserved.
• Maintain both physical and electronic records related to NAGPRA, including correspondence, consultation requests, repatriation claims, and internal documentation.
• Keep track of communication and interactions with Tribal representatives.
• Support the logistical planning and coordination of consultation meetings.
• Manage timelines effectively to ensure timely responses to tribal requests.
• Assist in summarizing complex information and drafting formal written communications.
• Coordinate photography arrangements for artifacts as necessary.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• A strong ethical commitment toward stewardship of Native American collections.
• Possession of a bachelor's degree in anthropology, archaeology, Indigenous or Native Studies, museum studies, or a related discipline.
• One to three years of professional experience in areas related to NAGPRA research, compliance, or repatriation coordination, ideally within museums, universities, or cultural centers.
• Excellent writing skills and strong organizational abilities.
• Proven capability to work autonomously and collaboratively within teams.

Terms and Schedule

• This is a part-time position requiring approximately 21 hours weekly.
• The hourly pay rate is $28.60.
• The appointment is for one year with potential extension for an additional year.
• The role is union-affiliated with the United Auto Workers.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The MFA is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, strictly adhering to non-discrimination practices across all aspects of employment including race, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected categories.