Black Visual Arts Researcher (BMRC)

University of Chicago - Chicago, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Hybrid - Chicago, IL

Educational Services

About the position

The University of Chicago Library is seeking a researcher for a two-year position focused on surveying Black visual art related archival collections at BMRC member institutions in Chicago. The role involves building scholarly archival digital resources based on the survey findings, collaborating with archivists, academics, and curators, and facilitating public access to these collections through the BMRC Archives Portal. The researcher will also conduct an independent project in the second year, culminating in a public presentation or program. Additionally, the researcher will plan and implement professional development opportunities for artists and scholars to engage with the collections.

Responsibilities

• Carries out a strategic and extensive survey of Black visual art related archival collections at BMRC member institutions, carefully documenting the information gathered.
• Produces academic and archival quality descriptive resources on the Black visual art collections to facilitate access based on the survey information.
• Works with BMRC staff to input the data collected and resources created into the BMRC Archives Portal.
• Creates and delivers and/or coordinates two professional development opportunities for artists/curators to engage with BMRC member archival collections.
• Plans and executes an independent Black visual arts-based project that culminates in a publication, artwork, or exhibit of the researcher's choice.
• Organizes and holds an event presenting their independent project to the public.
• Attends meetings, training sessions, or other BMRC member-related functions as relevant.
• Interacts with faculty, researchers, and staff for committee work or information.
• Analyzes program budgets and makes budgetary recommendations.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in a related field.
• 1-2 years of experience in an archives, library, or other cultural heritage setting with an active interest in Black arts and/or Black archives.
• 1-2 years of experience with digital collections and resource development, virtual and in-person programming, and/or conducting research using primary sources.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree in library or information science (with an Archives focus).
• Master's or PhD degree in Fine Arts, African American Studies, Library and Information Science, Art History, or a related field of study with a specialization in African Americans or African Diaspora (ABD acceptable).
• Demonstrated sound judgment and effective decision-making skills.
• Critical thinking and analytical skills with a demonstrated ability to address a wide range of complex serial related problems.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage complex tasks and projects.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely both verbally and in written documents.
• Ability to direct and instruct others in both new and established routines and procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with clarity, tact, and courtesy with Library staff, vendors, and others.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible scheduling