Biological Anthropology Archival Intern
Biological Anthropology Archival Intern
Job Summary:
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History, founded in 1920, is located in the heart of University Circle, five miles east of downtown Cleveland, Ohio. For more than a century, the Museum has inspired visitors to connect with the wonders of science and nature. Today, we continue that legacy—and remain committed to sharing our resources to promote a healthy future for both humans and the planet.
As Ohio’s largest natural history museum, we use our vast collections and state-of-the-art facilities to contribute to scientific understanding worldwide. Our scientists conduct research across a variety of disciplines, making groundbreaking discoveries about early human ancestors, ancient Ohio, animal and plant life around the world, and more. We steward more than 12,500 acres of wild habitats through our Natural Areas Program, working to protect the environment of northern Ohio and the diverse species that call it home.
The Hamann-Todd Non-Human Primate Osteological Collection contains around 1,000 non-human primate skeletons purchased by Carl A. Hamann and T. Wingate Todd from private collections and the taxidermy firm Gerrard & Sons of London. This collection mostly includes the great apes—chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans. The collection also contains associated historical archives that detail the origin and acquisition of the primate skeletons.
The Kirtlandia intern will integrate existing paper and digital records with their own external research to better understand the Hamann-Todd non-human primates. Drawing on new and existing datasets, the intern will develop an archives-based research project that explores the demographic patterns of the primates in the collection and identifies trends in the locations, time periods, and individuals involved in collecting these specimens. Under the guidance of the supervisor, they will analyze data and present their findings. Upon the project's completion, the intern will have gained experience in archival research methods, project management, and science communication.
This is an 8-week program at 40 hours per week (320 hours), with the hope to start mid May, but exact dates can be arranged with your direct supervisor. Interns will present their internship-related activities at the Friends of CMNH annual August luncheon meeting. More information can be found here: Internships | Cleveland Museum of Natural History
Eligibility:
Program applicants must be attending an accredited college or university or must have graduated from college within six months prior to application submittal
Required to Apply:
- Write a brief 1-2 page statement that:
- Details your background and research interests
- Explains why you are a good candidate for this position
- Describes your previous training and research experience
- Discusses how you expect to benefit from your experience as a Research Intern
- Curriculum vitae
- Two letters of recommendation with your application. Alternatively, letter writers may email them directly to hr@cmnh.org
- Must be authorized to work in the United States
Application Deadline: March 13, 2026
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Responsible for assigned tasks associated with research activities including, but not limited to, digitization, data management, inventorying, archival and genealogical data collection, data analysis and interpretation, literature reviews, and report writing
- Assists in accurate record keeping of research activities
- Responsible for the handling of Museum objects with care and attention in order to mitigate damage
- Assists in ordering supplies and equipment in support of research project
- Performs all duties according to established museum operating, safety, and environmental and quality policies
- Adheres to the CMNH Manual of Research and Collections Policies
- Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor or museum management
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Working knowledge of relevant research tools, including digitization equipment and software and genealogical and research databases
- Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail
- Interest in historical, archival, and/or genealogical research, previous research and project management experience preferred
- Display good judgement and discretion when working with sensitive materials
- Ability to handle collection objects carefully and safely to not cause damage
- Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications
- Ability to communicate effectively both written and orally
- Ability to work successfully with Museum members, employees and the general public
Working Conditions
Conducting indoor research activities that may occasionally require physical effort. Position may require sitting, walking, standing, and reaching including stooping, kneeling, and crouching. Must be able to respond to emergency situations.
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, ADA EMPLOYER, and a SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE