Intern - Paid

Conservation Research Intern - Light Sensitivity and Exhibition Research (Temporary, Part-Time)

Conservation Center

INTERNSHIP SUMMARY

Under the guidance of the Head Scientist, the intern will develop hands-on experience in conservation science, scientific analysis, and preventive conservation while supporting research related to the light sensitivity of museum objects. The Conservation Research Laboratory supports LACMA’s conservation, exhibition, and collections programs through scientific research and technical analysis, collaborating with conservators, curators, and collection specialists to study and preserve works of art across the museum’s diverse collections.

The intern will work alongside the Conservation Scientist and Conservators to support light sensitivity assessments for textiles and other light-sensitive objects scheduled for upcoming exhibitions at LACMA. The primary focus of the internship will be the use of the Microfading Tester (MFT), a non-destructive analytical technique used to evaluate the light sensitivity of museum objects and inform appropriate exhibition lighting requirements and display durations.

The internship will provide hands-on experience with scientific instrumentation, preventive conservation methodologies, colorimetric analysis, data interpretation, and the application of conservation science to exhibition planning and collections care.

The internship is based at LACMA’s Conservation Research Laboratory on the museum’s main campus.

This is a 18-week paid internship, approximately 16 hours per week at $18.47/hour.

Anticipated Start Date: October 1, 2026

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Gains hands-on experience supporting light sensitivity assessments for textiles and other light-sensitive museum objects.

• Learns to perform colorimetric measurements using a spectrophotometer prior to exhibition installation.

• Learns to operate the Microfading Tester (MFT) to evaluate the light sensitivity of museum objects.

• Assists with handling and preparing objects for scientific testing in accordance with museum and conservation practices.

• Records, organizes, and maintains scientific data generated through testing and analysis.

• Assists with interpretation of colorimetric and microfading data to support exhibition lighting recommendations.

• Assists with preparing reports and documentation of research findings.

• Gains exposure to preventive conservation practices and the role of conservation science in exhibition planning and collections care.

• Works collaboratively with Conservation Scientists and Conservators on research supporting upcoming LACMA exhibitions.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Internship applicants must be currently enrolled in an academic program or have recently graduated within 1 year.

• Coursework or academic experience in chemistry, physics, environmental science/data, conservation science, or a related scientific field is preferred.

• Demonstrated interest in conservation science, cultural heritage, museum collections, or the preservation of works of art.

• Strong organizational, analytical, and data-recording skills.

• Ability to work carefully and methodically with museum objects and scientific equipment.

• Previous experience with scientific instrumentation, spectroscopy, colorimetry, data analysis, or conservation science is preferred but not required.

Please submit a resume and a cover letter.