Open Position Historian-in-Residence at the Center for Astrophysics
Type: Full-time, temporary appointment
Duration: Thirteen weeks with possibility for extension
Location: This position is a fully remote opportunity
Compensation Rate: $30.00/hour
Position Summary
Reporting to the Head Librarian of the John G. Wolbach Library at the Center for Astrophysics (CfA), the Historian-in-Residence will undertake original research to support the Library’s anti-racist priorities and take a leading role developing projects that directly confront racial inequality in astronomy. This position provides an opportunity for history scholars advancing their careers to pursue research with support from an interdisciplinary community and with access to world-class resources.
Essential Responsibilities
- Undertakes research to inform decisions about the scope and execution of ethno-astronomical work to broaden the astronomy community’s exposure to marginalized cultures with a particular focus on our institution’s history of imperialism and the astronomical traditions of indigenous peoples, such as Native Americans, Native Hawai’ians, and astronomy of the African diaspora.
- Lays the groundwork for future exhibits and interpretive materials to support cultural competence and belonging at the CfA.
- Serves as a resource for the CfA community by bringing a historical perspective to on-going institutional discussions about race in contemporary astronomy.
- Identifies opportunities for collaboration and meaningfully contributes to grant writing efforts that further anti-racist work at the CfA.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in a relevant historical field OR equivalent education and subject expertise.
- Demonstrated experience using historical and ethnological research methods.
- Evidence of analytical, organizational, communication, project, and time management skills.
- Demonstrated ability to set priorities, meet deadlines, and complete tasks and projects on time.
- Strong teamwork skills and a commitment to promoting a collaborative environment of trust, inclusion, and transparency.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in the History of Science
- Familiarity with astronomy and its adjacent fields.
- Experience with public history, including programming, events, and exhibitions.
- Experience working remotely with a multidisciplinary team.