Conservation Internship for Broadening Access (CIBA)

CIBA aims to help diversify the field of museum conservation by introducing students to the field who come from varied economic, cultural, social, and educational backgrounds. Students and recent graduates from Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) of higher education such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs) are encouraged to apply to this program.

CIBA Interns will: Gain a deeper understanding of museum conservation through multi-disciplinary experiences involving the conservation of objects, paintings, textiles, paper, time-based media, and/or other materials; Increase their knowledge of advanced technology in the field of museum conservation; Learn about topics in museum conservation practices, industry standards, and educational requirements through weekly seminars curated by institutional experts; Hone their research, laboratory, and professional skills through their internship and weekly skill-building seminars..

1. A current CV or resume including your education, any volunteer experience, skills, and accomplishments (2 pages maximum)

2. An Essay: Application essay must address the following questions 1) Cultural heritage refers to intangible concepts such as language and practices, as well as tangible objects, collections, specimens, structures, or sites identified as having artistic, historical, scientific, religious, or social significance. What is it about working with and preserving cultural heritage that interest you? (200 words) 2) A short biography describing your background, personal history and interests, and your major/minor, if declared (300 words) 3) How will the CIBA program help you further define your career goals? What do you hope to gain from this experience (200 words) 4) How did you hear about this opportunity?

3. Transcripts: (or other materials when transcripts are not issued) from all appropriate institutions are required. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. If transcripts or other materials are not in English, the applicant should provide translations.

4. References: Two letters of recommendation, at least one of which must be academic, sent directly to SOLAA from your referees by the application close date.

5. Your Preference: In the application you will be asked to identify which Smithsonian Unit(s) you are most interested in joining for your internship.

[email protected]