Curatorial Research Specialist

Requirements

• Education & Experience
• Master's degree from an accredited institution in history, art history, media studies, cinema studies, or related field required; Ph.D. preferred
• Minimum of three (3) years of cumulative experience in a museum or other arts institution context required
• Exceptional research skills including archival and digital research methods and tools
• Proficiency in the use of computers and Microsoft Office software
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, and sound judgment
• Proven skill in managing databases and records
• Broad knowledge of art history spanning the pre-modern era through nineteenth-century visual culture, 20th-century popular culture, and modern and contemporary art preferred
• Familiarity with best practices in provenance research preferred
• Knowledge of The Museum System (TMS), including data entry in TMS to create constituent records, object records, and capture rights information
• Reading knowledge of two or more languages required
• Knowledge of basic museum processes and procedures
• Deep passion, alignment, and commitment to the Lucas Museum's mission
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Ability to understand and follow complex, detailed instructions

Additional Information

ABOUT THE LUCAS MUSEUM OF NARRATIVE ART Opening in September 2026, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is dedicated to illustrated storytelling. Founded by George Lucas and Mellody Hobson, the museum's collection features works by artists including Norman Rockwell, Kadir Nelson, Jessie Willcox Smith, N. C. Wyeth, Beatrix Potter, Judith F. Baca, Frida Kahlo, and Maxfield Parrish; as well as comic art legends such as Winsor McCay, Jack Kirby, Frank Frazetta, Alison Bechdel, Chris Ware, and R. Crumb; and photographers Gordon Parks, Henri Cartier-Bresson, and Dorothea Lange. The Museum also houses the Lucas Archives, containing models, props, concept art, and costumes from Lucas's filmmaking career. Designed by Ma Yansong of MAD with a landscape by Mia Lehrer of Studio-MLA, the Museum is in Exposition Park, Los Angeles, on an 11-acre campus that includes new green space and a 300,000-square-foot building with galleries, two theaters, a library, restaurant, café, retail store, and community spaces. POSITION SUMMARY The Curatorial Research Specialist is a member of the Lucas Museum curatorial team tasked with providing in-depth research and organizational support for collections and exhibition development. This position plays a key role in object research, and related historic analysis and cataloguing of the Lucas Museum collections, as well as assisting with specific project-based curatorial initiatives, including the museum's exhibition and acquisition programs. The Curatorial Research Specialist, under the direction of the Lucas Museum Curatorial department, will work independently and collaboratively with Museum staff in the essential activities of a curatorial department. The Curatorial Research Specialist will combine advanced research skills and methodologies with a strong background in writing to write research-based texts on works in the collection that may serve a variety of content purposes, such as object files, materials for the Revenue & Engagement division, publications, and forms of gallery interpretation. This role will catalogue all findings utilizing The Museum System (TMS), and will also provide additional departmental administrative support, including the completion of forms, documents, and project budgets. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND OUR COMMITMENT TO DEAIB The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art embraces diversity and equal opportunity. We are committed to building a team that represents and supports a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. The Lucas Museum fosters a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment, whether based on race, national origin, gender, gender expression, religion, ethnic background, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other criterion prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our team is critical to our success, and we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the best qualified people from a diverse candidate pool. Applications from traditionally underrepresented communities are encouraged. The statements in this description represent typical elements, criteria, and general work performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for the job. *************************************************************************************************************** MISSION AND VISION The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is dedicated to the art of illustrated stories. Our mission is to inspire and connect people through the exploration of visual stories and their influences in society. VALUES Our internal and external practices are shaped by the following beliefs and behaviors. People First: We meet people wherever they are (physically, intellectually, emotionally). Our inclusive practice connects who people are and what they find emotional in works of art. Inspired: We believe that art can move you to feel, think, reflect, and act. Collaborative: We believe that nimble thinking and working together yield exponential results. STRATEGIC PRIORITIES Narrative Art: Amplify the social impact of storytelling and illustration. Community: Connect to a broad and diverse public. Operational Excellence: Create a healthy and durable institution. All staff at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art lead through a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, both within the Museum and with the communities that we serve. Salary and titles will be assigned commensurate to the successful candidates' education and experience. An attractive compensation package will be offered to the successful candidate(s).

Your Match

How well this role fits your profile.

Company Intel

What employees say

Worked at lucasmuseum? Share your experience