Job Description
Position Information Position Information
Working Title Curator, Bessey Herbarium
Department University Museum-0932
Requisition Number S_241100
Posting Open Date 11/08/2024
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 12/13/2024
Posting Close Date Open Until Filled Yes
Description of Work Primary job responsibilities are to lead the Charles Bessey Herbarium, set and execute its strategic research direction in alignment with the UNSM mission, vision and strategic goals. This position is responsible for research, collection curation and Herbarium management on the UNL campus, with the purpose of enhancement and conservation of this unique set of Herbarium collections. This position manages the acquisition, preparation, organization, preservation, conservation, supervision, and promotes the research use of herbarium specimens. This position ensures that visiting researchers are assisted and supervised, and that the following are also trained and supervised: UNL students, interns and collection volunteers, student employees, nonstudent employees and other users of the collections. The second set of responsibilities include overseeing specimen preparation, cataloguing and digitization - photography, data records, and community-based knowledge. Duties include monitoring the storage environment and security, ensure that monitoring of collection pests and taking appropriate pest management actions occurs, oversees coordinating incoming and outgoing loans, and processing new acquisitions. This position contributes to collection growth by soliciting specimen donations and actively collecting and documenting botanical diversity, conducting research and publishing results. The position is responsible for overseeing the procurement of all relevant permits required for these activities. The third set of responsibilities supports the museum's mission by assisting with exhibit curation (collection/selection of objects, drafting text, installing/de-installing exhibit objects), assisting with educational programs as a content expert and speaker, and contributing to the museum's digital presence.
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln seeks to attract and retain a high performing and diverse workforce in which employees' differences are respected and valued to better meet the varying needs of the diverse populations we serve. The university fosters a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration so that all individuals are able to participate and contribute to their full potential. As an EO/AA employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See
Minimum Required Qualifications Ph.D. (or international equivalent) in Botany or related discipline (Systematics, Evolution, Ecology) with demonstrated research emphasis in phylogenetic and evolutionary research of vascular or nonvascular plants, lichens, or fungi and 3 years' experience, including knowledge of professional practices in object care, documentation, loans, exhibitions, packing and shipping. Evidence of active involvement and experience with museum curation and standard collection operations. Working knowledge of databases and standard MS office software proficiency (Word, Excel). Experience with systematic botany, collection management, museum studies or related field. Demonstrated systematics expertise in a group relevant to the strengths of the Bessey Herbarium (vascular plants, non-vascular plants or mycology). Demonstrated experience with research projects and publishing in peer-reviewed outlets. Demonstrated museum curation skills. Knowledge of professional practices in object care, object reports, archives and other documentation, loans, exhibitions, packing and shipping. Ability to follow policies and procedures regarding sensitive data and maintain confidentiality.
Preferred Qualifications Herbarium and botanical research training preferred. Working knowledge of databases (Specify preferred). Experience working with general public, amateur scientists, faculty and students. Experience or knowledge of working with molecular data and other -omics data sets, as appropriate for group. Demonstrated experience writing exhibit text, exhibit curation; experience collaborating with educators as a content expert and providing appropriate text or references for curriculum; Experience working with professional collection managers to raise the standards of collection care through workshops and shared best practices. Demonstrated experience obtaining and overseeing extramural funding (grants, contracts) as PI or co-PI.
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required No
Physical Required No
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances. No
Criminal History Background Check Required Yes
Posted Salary $67,000/yr. minimum
How to Apply Click on "Apply for this Job". You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file. You will be required to attach your CV, cover letter, list of three (3) references, and 1-2 page statement of curatorial and collection management philosophy as four (4) separate documents in MS Word or PDF format.
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact Ember Welsch, Human Resources Coordinator Lead
Office of Research and Innovation
ewelsch2@unl.edu
Job Category (old) Managerial/Professional
Job Type Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5) Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? No
If Temporary, indicate end date Planned Hire Date: Appointment End Date University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Job Tags
Full time, Temporary work,