Job: Conservation Science Fellow
Pay/Hours/Benefits: This is a full-time, two-year term limited position with an annual salary of $55,000 plus benefits and conference travel funding,
Institution: Mariner’s Museum and Park, 100 Museum Drive Newport News, VA 23606
Application Deadline: April 24th, 2026
Brief Description:
The primary focus of the fellowship is to contribute to fundamental research and help improve the treatment of waterlogged organic artifacts such as those recovered from wooden shipwrecks. During burial, historical ships spend centuries submerged in a marine environment often surrounded by sulfur-reducing bacteria. Over time, these organisms produce hydrogen sulfide which reacts with the organic materials onsite, forming compounds which can severely damage wooden artifacts after they are dried. Therefore, extracting sulfur compounds from wood prior to drying is critical to help mitigate the potential for long-term debilitating issues. Through previous research funding from a National Center for Preservation Technology and Training grant in 2023, initial background research and preliminary sulfur extraction tests via chromatography on cellulose coupons were conducted with promising results.
To build off and expand this foundational work, The Mariners’ Museum is offering a fellowship centered on chromatographic techniques, surrogate design, and creation with characterization being done with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The fellow will collaborate with Associate Scientist Brian Kim under the direct supervision of Research Scientist, Dr. Molly McGath and Senior Archaeological Conservator, Elsa Sangouard who are overseen by Director of Conservation and Chief Conservator William Hoffman.
Contact Info/Link to Online Application:
To view the full position descriptions and apply online, please visit:
In addition to a cover letter and CV, please include at least one reference letter from a supervisor familiar with your work experience.
