Library Fellow for Research Data Management, MIT Libraries, Cambridge MA

Posted March 27, 2014

The Library Fellows Program was created to provide exceptional, early-career library professionals the opportunity to contribute to program areas of distinction and strategic priority in a dynamic academic research library. Fellows will work with and learn from colleagues who are recognized leaders in developing programs which serve the expanding needs of this world-class institution as well as contributing to the wider academic community. Library Fellows will have the opportunity to expand their skills and experience in ways that position them to excel and lead in the research library profession. Applications are invited for this two-year position, with a start date planned for summer or early fall of 2014.

POSITION DESCRIPTION: This position will support and expand our evolving services for research data management (RDM), working with staff within the Libraries as well as the wider MIT community. The Fellow will report to the Convener of the Research Data Services Working Group (which provides the Libraries’ data management services, for all disciplines and formats across MIT). Potential activities include:

 Providing research data management services such as consultations, workshops, and maintenance of self-help services;
 Participation in projects such as building documentation for providing RDM consulting and investigating available data management planning tools and services;
 Conducting research and assessment to better understand research data management needs at MIT;
 Supporting development of services to enable MIT researchers to comply with requirements from publishers and funding bodies for open access to research data (in collaboration with the Office of
Scholarly Publishing, Copyright, and Licensing);
 Exploring additional services for research data management;
 Collaborating with related Libraries’ services, such as those regarding archives, departmental liaisons, personal information management, and/or digital curation;
 Monitoring trends to help the Libraries stay up-to-date on RDM;

Specific position/project responsibilities will be more fully developed early in the appointment, based on the strengths and opportunities presented by the appointee.

QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must have an ALA-accredited MLS/MLIS or an advanced degree in a relevant subject/field received within the past two years and an articulated special interest in and foundation for gaining expertise in research data management. In addition we are seeking candidates with: a demonstrated understanding of and interest in the mission of academic libraries; evidence of self-directed learning and adaptability; facility in the use of technologies, and experience and interest in emerging library technologies; excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and to work successfully with a diverse population; strong communication skills including the ability to write and document clearly; demonstrated good judgment in priority setting; demonstrated initiative and innovative spirit; demonstrated ability to be flexible and tolerate ambiguity; the potential for success working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment; commitment to professional growth and contribution; and, leadership potential as confirmed by references. Applicants must be eligible, without requiring MIT sponsorship, to work immediately in the U.S. for a two-year period.

SALARY AND BENEFITS: $53,500 minimum annual salary. MIT offers excellent benefits including a choice of health, dental and vision plans, a retirement plan, and tuition assistance. Fellows will be provided a modest relocation allowance. An annual allowance will be provided for professional development with additional funds available for skill development as appropriate.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Apply online at: http://hrweb.mit.edu/staffing/. Please include cover letter (speaking to interest in a career in academic libraries as well as specific skills, interest in program area as defined), résumé, and contact information for three references. References may include library faculty, supervisors, mentors, etc. – individuals who can speak to potential for success as Library Fellow. Full consideration will be given to applications received by May 12, 2014 for this and a second position (Fellow for Digital Archives).