Research Assistant

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion at Getty

Getty believes diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion are essential to our excellence and to the execution of our mission. The Getty community values differences in the pursuit of inquiry and knowledge, mutual understanding, respect, trust, transparency, and cooperation. We are committed to creating a welcoming workplace that reflects the various backgrounds of the communities we serve and includes individuals who bring a diversity of values and experiences. Individuals of color, women, LGBTQIA+, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Job Summary

The Curatorial department of the Getty Research Institute (GRI) is seeking a part-time Research Assistant to assist the curator of rare books and early modern manuscripts by conducting research, writing and general assistance related to exhibitions, acquisitions, publications, and presentations. 

Major Job Responsibilities

• Conducts research in the special collections and contributes to the conceptual development of a project by organizing/creating documentation of found materials, such as bibliographies, searching for and ordering texts, writing literature reviews, etc
• Requests images for exhibitions and/or publications; researches and obtains art and image permissions
• Proofreads, edits, and translates as needed
• Assists with creation of project websites and PowerPoint presentations
• May copyedit essays, author biographies, endnotes, etc
• May assist with organizing art programs for publications by communicating with authors, updating essay drafts, assisting editors in checking page proofs, proofing indexes, etc

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in art history or related field; MA/Ph.D. candidate/degree in Art History, Library Science or a related humanities field preferred (e.g., Classics, History, Language, or Literature from Antiquity to the Modern with an emphasis on cross-cultural exchange.)
• 0-2 years research experience (education may be considered); previous experience in dealing with rare books and primary archival materials preferred.
• Working knowledge in at least one foreign language preferred; conducting research in modern European languages is essential and knowledge of Latin highly desirable. (Knowledge of non-European languages—especially Arabic and/or Farsi—also a strong +).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong skills and facility in navigating a major research library increasingly dedicated to a global view of the history of visual culture.
• GRI’s rare book and manuscript collections is focused on the history of art writ large, but has long been immersed in Eurocentric traditions. Consequently, facility in conducting research in modern European languages is essential and knowledge of Latin highly desirable. (Knowledge of non-European languages—especially Arabic and/or Farsi—also a strong +).
• Digital dexterity with databases, graphic-design suites, social media, AI, etc.
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a timely manner
• Ability to build relationships, collaborate and work in teams
• Ability to set and meet deadlines for oneself
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe software suites preferred

Benefits and Perks

Here are just some examples that Getty offers/provides for full-time employees:

• Medical, Dental and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected.
• 403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan – with up to 5% Getty Match
• Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account
• Educational Assistance and professional development
• Paid Vacation, Sick and Personal Days
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Many positions have bi-weekly Off-Fridays
• On-Site Fitness Center at Getty Center
• Community service opportunities

To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and long list of perks, go to Getty HR.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status.