About the Position
The Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) invites applications for its 2026–2028 Postdoctoral Fellowship in Conservation Science, based at the Getty Center, Los Angeles. This two-year, fully funded position offers early-career scientists (PhD awarded in 2020 or later) an opportunity to work within the Materials Characterization Research Group at GCI Science, focusing on the study of organic materials in cultural heritage, including paints, plastics, lacquers, and coatings. Under the GCI’s mission to advance conservation practice in the visual arts, the Fellow will develop and apply innovative analytical protocols and data evaluation methods, collaborating with conservation scientists and institutions worldwide.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Fellow in Conservation Science
- Institution: Getty Conservation Institute (GCI)
- Department: GCI Science – Materials Characterization Research Group
- Research Field: Conservation Science / Material Chemistry / Heritage Science
- Location: Getty Center, Los Angeles, USA
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (Two years)
- Start Date (Anticipated): September 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time (Hybrid/Partially Remote)
- Salary Range: USD 80,000 annually (commensurate with experience)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Conservation and material characterisation of cultural heritage
- Organic materials: paints, lacquers, plastics, coatings, decorative surfaces
- Chromatographic and spectroscopic analysis
- Data evaluation and analytical protocol development
- Collaboration with global conservation researchers
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD (awarded 2020 or later) in Materials Science, Chemistry, or related field.
- Strong background in experimental research and instrumental analysis.
- Experience with chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Expertise in pyrolysis-GC/MS, size exclusion chromatography, and ion chromatography.
- Experience applying advanced data analysis tools to chromatographic data.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and interest in the visual arts.
- Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct innovative research on organic materials in cultural heritage.
- Develop and validate analytical protocols and data analysis methods.
- Collaborate with international conservation scientists and museum professionals.
- Disseminate research through publications, conferences, and technical reports.
Application Process
How to Apply:
Apply online via the Getty careers portal. Upload a Statement of Interest, Doctoral Dissertation Abstract, CV, Writing Sample, and Confirmation of Degree as a single PDF.
Confidential Letters of Recommendation:
Two letters must be sent directly to GCIPostDoc@getty.edu by 1 December 2025.
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Ongoing
- Deadline: 1 December 2025
- Fellowship Duration: September 2026 – August 2028
Useful Links
- Institution Website: Getty: Resources for Visual Art and Cultural Heritage
- Official Notification Link: Click here
- Apply Now: Getty Careers Portal
Learn about more job opportunities: HigherJobz
