Position Description
The Arts and Museum Winternship will be based in the Curatorial Office at the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. The intern will support the North American Curator on updating interpretation in the Hall of North American Indians (HNAI). The project broadly involves updating content aligned with the gallery’s interpretive themes by highlighting contemporary Native American practice (i.e. artists, language, fashion, news, architecture, events). The project may involve research and writing, compiling a bibliography, and visits to the HNAI gallery. (It will not involve direct work with the collections not already on display.) Specific topics can be considered based on the interests of the intern.
The intern may also assist the Curator with other special projects going on at the time. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about exhibition planning and Native American collections in Harvard’s museums, as well as be introduced to contemporary topics in Native America and museum stewardship.
Skills & Experience
The position requires someone who is able to think creatively and enjoys deep diving into subjects. An interest in museums is a must, together with an interest in Native American and museum ethics-related issues. Museum-related experience a plus, as is some knowledge of anthropology. Other requirements are:
- Excellent organizational, research, and computer skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently
- Discretion and professionalism in a setting that handles sensitive information
***This position is part of the MCS 2026-2027 Arts & Museums January Internship Program. The program is a valuable chance for currently enrolled Harvard College students to complete a three-week, project-based internship in the Boston area during the January term (January4th -22nd, excluding Martin Luther King Jr. Day). MCS will offer a $750 stipend as well as on-campus housing to any student who completes a winternship. To be considered, you must apply in Crimson Careers.
Students applying for an Arts & Museums Winter Internship who require on-campus housing must also apply for Wintersession housing before the Housing Office’s Round 1 deadline in early October via the Residential Portal Winter Recess Housing – College Housing. Please note that you do not need to have interviewed for or received an internship offer in order to submit this housing application. Applying by the deadline is necessary to avoid the $50 late application fee assessed by the Housing Office. Other internships take place outside of Boston and provide their own housing.
If you have any questions about the Arts & Museums January Internship program, feel free to contact Amy DiGiovine at adigiovine@fas.harvard.edu.***
