Rights and Permissions Research Internship, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA
Posted November 13, 2015
Do you enjoy research? Is identifying sources your favorite part of writing research papers for class? Are you interested in learning how to put your organizational and investigative skills to use in a Museum setting? The department of Intellectual Property (IP) is primarily responsible for managing the Museum’s digital and physical photographic archive of objects, events, galleries, and people relating to the Museum.
IP is seeking a part-time intern who will assist in researching and communicating with individual and corporate rights holders for art works in the Museum’s collection. The intern’s work will directly support the Museum’s mission to provide broad access to its vast collection of visual resources, while also respecting the rights of artists represented in the collection.
Working under the direction of the Coordinator of Rights & Permissions, the intern will gain substantial experience related to the rights and reproductions management of an extensive photographic archive. The intern will not only complete copyright research, but will also learn about navigating the public domain and professional best practices regarding orphan works.
Our ideal candidate is someone who is excited about discovering information and who can not only think outside the box in terms of sources (e.g. obituaries, town newsletters, etc.), but also critically evaluate the authority of sources.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct research to identify and locate rights holders
- Follow up with outstanding permission requests
- Correspond with rights holders when instructed
- Accurately record work and on-going research
- Edit database reports and assist department staff as necessary
Requirements:
- Enrollment in and returning to an undergraduate or graduate program
- Proven strong research and documentation skills
- Demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy
- Proven ability to work independently
- Excellent communication skills
- Proficiency in MS Word, MS Excel, and Internet Explorer
- Ability to prioritize duties and multi-task
- Ability to commit 2-3 days per week through mid April
- Email a single MS-Word document containing your cover letter & resume to: [email protected]
- Ability to attend orientation on either Sat, Jan 23 (9:30am) or Wed, Feb 3 (10am or 6pm)