Natural Science Research Curator I

Job Code: 32002442
Salary Grade: NC09
Revision Date: 06/2018

Class Concept

This is a professional and technical position responsible for the curation (i.e., maintenance, operations, and growth) of a natural science specimen collection. Curatorial duties may include specimen collection and preservation, formal accession of specimens into the collection, taxonomic identification, maintenance of data files, specimen loan responsibilities, and participating in the preparation and submission of proposals for external funding. Employee participates in scientific research, as approved by their supervisor, including project design and development of methodology, collection of data, analysis and interpretation of results, and dissemination of findings. Employee provides expertise in area of their scientific specialty to other sections of the museum, private industry, other State agencies, and the public. Outreach and education activities may include presentation of public informational lectures on science related topics, organization of and participation in technical workshops or public programs, providing tours, and/or the publication of popular articles or other public-directed media pieces. Employee may be responsible for supervising students, interns, and volunteers.

Recruitment Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge in area of specialization (i.e., vertebrate or invertebrate zoology, vertebrate or invertebrate paleontology, geology or mineralogy, etc.)
• Considerable knowledge of best practices in the curation, maintenance, and growth of natural sciences specimen collections.
• Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of scientific research (including scientific funding proposals, research methodology, and dissemination of results).
• General knowledge of the natural history of North Carolina.
• Ability to converse and present lectures on topics in areas of expertise to professionals and nonprofessionals.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, or science curriculum related to the area of expertise from an appropriately accredited institution and two-years' experience in specialty area: a Master's degree in a natural science area may be substituted for experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.