What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mellon Undergraduate Curatorial Fellow position at Museum Associates?
Mellon Undergraduate Curatorial Fellow (Regular, Part-Time)
Education and Public Programs
Reporting to the Director of Academic Programs & Partnerships, the Mellon Undergraduate Curatorial Fellow will gain in-depth exposure to the curatorial profession and various professional pathways accessible through entry into the museum field. The Mellon Undergraduate Curatorial Fellowship (MUCF) is a transformative two-year fellowship for undergraduate students from all academic and socio-cultural backgrounds. Throughout Years 1 and 2, fellows work closely with staff across Education, Public Programs and Curatorial departments. Over the course of the fellowship, participants receive mentorship and hands-on experience in museum research, exhibition planning, public engagement, education and a wide range of museum departments.
The MUCF is designed to demystify museum careers, cultivate leadership skills, and build a strong network of peers and mentors. The MUCF is an exceptional opportunity developed to support the next generation of unique voices in the museum field.
This Fellowship will run from Fall 2026 through Spring 2028.
Responsibilities:
Collaborates with the Director of Academic Programs and Partnerships, AVP of Education and Public. Programs and other staff to develop various projects in museum exhibitions, programs, or other areas.
Conducts research in areas relevant to LACMA’s collection.
Participates in department meetings.
Maintains regular and reliable attendance throughout the fellowship.
Fulfills the time commitment requirements of the two-year program, including:
Year 1: 12–16 hours per month
Summer Term: 40 hours per week for 10 weeks
Year 2 Academic Year: 12–16 hours per week
Education and Public Programming
Supports educational programs and projects related to current exhibitions.
Attends and participates in museum public events, symposia, and gallery talks.
Curatorial Research and Writing
Conducts research on artists, artworks, and exhibition themes.
Assists with the development of exhibition texts, wall labels, and catalogue materials.
Supports curatorial staff/professional staff in special projects and/or exhibitions.
Professional Development
Attends special convenings, field trips, and mentorship activities.
Completes reflective writing and portfolio assignments documenting fellowship growth.
Contributes to ongoing dialogue related to community engagement and representation in museums.
Performs other duties or special projects as assigned.
Benefits:
The expected hourly rate for this Los Angeles, CA based position is $18.00, subject to change.
Qualifications:
Current undergraduate student in good academic standing, enrolled in a Los Angeles- area two- or four-year college or university, with at least two years remaining before graduation at the start of the program.
Demonstrates interest in fine art, art history, art education, museum work, culture or a related academic field.
Ability to work collaboratively while also demonstrating initiative and accountability.
Willingness to actively engage with the MUCFcurriculum, mentors, and program timeline.
Ability to independently balance fellowship, academic, and extracurricular commitments.
Ability to maintain regular and reliable attendance and fulfill established fellowship hours throughout the academic year and summer term.
Ability to commit to the full two-year duration of the fellowship.
To be considered for this fellowship, Applicants are required to submit the following:
Resume
Unofficial college transcripts
Letter of interest outlining your interest in the Mellon Undergraduate Curatorial Fellowship
Letter of reference
The individual you are considering to write your reference letter may email it directly to Dr. Kidogo Kennedy at kidogokennedy@lacma.org.
Salary : $18