Conservator (On-Site, 20 to 24 Months, Fixed Term) - Old Red Medical Museum

Minimum Qualifications: 

Master’s degree in Archaeology, Biology, Zoology, Natural History, Conservation Science, or related field, and three (3) years of experience working in a conservation science-related field.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Ideal candidates bring advanced expertise in conservation science and a passion for preserving materials of exceptional historical and cultural value.
• Hold a Doctoral Degree in a related field
• Experience with materials of exceptional antiquity.
• Background in museum, academic, or research-based conservation settings.
• Familiarity with interdisciplinary collaboration involving scientific, historical, or compliance partners.
• Experience developing documentation standards for restricted or sensitive collections

Job Summary: 

Preserve History. Advance Science. Join UTMB as a Conservator. UTMB Health seeks a skilled Conservator to safeguard and preserve rare, historically significant biological collections. This role combines scientific expertise with ethical stewardship to ensure these unique materials remain accessible for research, education, and institutional legacy. 
Your work will directly support UTMB’s mission to advance medical education and historical research.

Job Duties:

Evaluation & Conservation

• Conduct detailed condition assessments of fragile, age-sensitive fluid-preserved biological collections using non-invasive and minimally invasive methods.
• Develop and implement individualized conservation and stabilization plans aligned with professional standards and ethical guidelines.
• Perform preventive conservation measures to mitigate deterioration due to environmental, biological, or material factors.
• Recommend conservation priorities based on condition, risk, historical significance, and institutional obligations.

Documentation & Research

• Maintain comprehensive, confidential documentation of assessments, treatments, and preservation strategies.
• Conduct historical, material, and scientific research to inform conservation decision-making.
• Collaborate with internal and external experts as appropriate to support responsible stewardship.

Environmental & Preventive Care

• Monitor and recommend appropriate environmental controls, storage solutions, and handling protocols.
• Advise on risk management strategies for long-term preservation of ancient materials.
• Support the development of emergency preparedness and response plans for special collections.
   

Ethical Stewardship & Compliance

• Ensure all conservation activities adhere to institutional policies, legal requirements, and recognized professional ethical frameworks.
• Exercise discretion and sensitivity in all aspects of handling, documentation, and communication.
• Support institutional review processes and approvals related to access, research, or interpretive use.
   

Collaboration & Advisory Support

• Your work will directly support UTMB’s mission to advance medical education and historical research.
• Work closely with museum leadership, historians, archivists, compliance partners, and academic stakeholders.
• Provide expert guidance related to conservation considerations for exhibitions, research requests, or educational initiatives.
• Participate in professional development to remain current on evolving standards and best practices.
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