Curator of Earth Science

Curator of Earth Sciences

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 Museum is seeking a creative and dynamic professional to join our Earth Sciences curatorial team.

Job Summary

The Curator of Earth Sciences is a museum scientist who runs an independent research program as part of a team of interdisciplinary curators. They will serve as a scientific expert for the museum in areas such as They will serve as a scientific expert for the museum in areas such as geodiversity, deep time, history of life, ancient Ohio, and planetary processes. The Curator engages in public outreach and engagement, working to translate scientific information into accessible, compelling content that enhances public interest and knowledge. In addition to informal educational opportunities, the Curator trains students through Museum-supported undergraduate work study, internships for high school and college students, and volunteer opportunities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities – Equally divided, with 1/3 (33.3%) devoted to research, 1/3 to public engagement, and 1/3 to institutional services.

• Conduct relevant fieldwork, collection-based, or laboratory research in support of an established research program. Adapt or build a research program that supports the Museum’s mission and utilizes our galleries, collections, and/or natural areas. Present research results in academic forums such as peer-reviewed scientific journals and conferences.
• Seek external funding to support research activities and manage the research budgets.
• Oversee Research Assistant staff members, volunteers, students, interns, and other specialized staff involved in research activities.
• Establish collaborative networks that can enhance the reach and application of the research program.
• Contribute accurate and relevant scientific content for Museum projects, including reports, marketing materials, and public engagement. Serve as the content provider in the development of CMNH temporary and traveling exhibits.
• In collaboration with philanthropy, lead tours, meet with donors, and develop content in support of fundraising activities.
• Collaborate with collections management staff to create and implement collection strategies and access, including reviewing external research requests. Provide advisement and assistance for the care and access to collections.
• Develop or enable academic partnerships for student training aligned with research program and Museum priorities.
• Adhere to the CMNH Collections Policy Manual.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

Ph.D. in Geology, Hydrology, Paleoecology, Geomorphology, Paleoclimatology, or a related field and 3-5 years of experience required. Experience securing external funding and research publications required.

Research focus related to Northeast Ohio, the Lake Erie Basin, and/or the Museum’s collections and natural area preserves preferred.

Required Application Materials

• CV
• Research Statement
• Cover Letter
  • Must include a museum integration plan that speaks to the science communication experience, community outreach, and use of Museum resources such as collections.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Expert knowledge of geodiversity, deep time, history of life, ancient Ohio, planetary processes, and best-practice research methodology.
• Proven ability to plan, direct, report on, and secure external funding to support research activities.
• Strong ability to communicate scientific materials in accessible, compelling ways to engage with diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to manage research personnel, including students, interns, and volunteers.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite products.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, problem-solving, and listening skills.
• Ability to work independently, within interdisciplinary teams, and as a leader on large-scale projects.
• Ability to follow all established Museum operating, safety, environmental, and quality policies.
• Ability to function in a fast-paced environment with time constraints and meet deadlines with competing priorities.

Working Conditions

This position includes working indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. Position may require sitting, walking, standing, or working at a computer for prolonged periods of time. Must be able to lift 50lbs with or without reasonable accommodation.

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY, ADA EMPLOYER, and a SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE