Science Research Program Mentor

American Museum of Natural History; New York (NY); On-site; USD 61,360 - 87,392; Part time

Job summary

The American Museum of Natural History is seeking part‑time Science Research Program Mentors to supervise high school students in laboratory settings and guide them through independent research projects aligned with ongoing scientific work.

Mentors will support students in the full research process, help prepare posters and talks, and participate in professional development. Candidates should hold a science degree and have active research privileges at AMNH.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a science‑related field.
• Must have a record of and be actively engaged in research.
• Must have lab or research privileges in an AMNH research facility.
• Master’s degree or PhD in science is preferred.
• Experience working with high school students is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Mentor three to six high school students.
• Assist the students in developing and executing a research project that covers the scientific method.
• Create a welcoming, inclusive environment for students in STEM.
• Assist students in creating and presenting a scientific poster, talk, and paper.
• Conduct email and in‑person check‑ins with YI staff.
• Attend mentor PDs and required trainings for part‑time Museum staff.

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in a science‑related field

Master’s degree or PhD in science

Job description

Science Research Program Mentor

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world’s preeminent scientific and cultural institutions, and has as its mission to discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe through a wide‑range program of scientific research, education, and exhibition. The Museum’s Youth Initiatives (YI) group, part of the department of Education, is seeking part‑time Research Mentors, responsible for conducting an independent research project with high school students.

Research Mentors will work with students through either the Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) or Lang Science Scholars program. They will supervise students in the laboratory and guide them through a research project that is either an active project of the scientist’s or a project within the scientist’s scope of work, while also supporting the students’ professional trajectories. Mentors are responsible for choosing the research project the student will carry out and may also support student advisory sessions, interviews, and mentorship workshops. They report to the SRMP Manager, may work with other YI staff, and must have pre‑existing research lab or research privileges in an AMNH research facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Mentor three to six high school students.
• Assist the students in developing and executing a research project that allows students to engage in all aspects of the scientific method, including training needed in any specialized techniques relevant to the project.
• Create a welcoming, inclusive environment where students can develop their sense of belonging in STEM.
• Assist students in creating and presenting a scientific poster, talk, and paper.
• Conduct email and in‑person check‑ins with YI staff.
• Attend mentor professional developments (PDs) and other required trainings for part‑time Museum staff.

The expected salary for the Science Research Program Mentor is $53.99 per hour. This position is overtime‑eligible. Pay will be determined based on several factors including skills, knowledge, training, education, credentials, areas of specialization, and depth and scope of experience.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a science‑related field.
• Must have a record of and be actively engaged in research.
• Must have lab or research privileges in an AMNH research facility.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in science.
• Experience working with high school students.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for prolonged periods.
• Must be able to move about the Museum campus.

Employment Details

Category: Part‑Time/Term

Union Status: Union

FLSA: Non‑Exempt

Expected Salary Minimum: $53.99 per hour

Expected Salary Maximum: $53.99 per hour

EEO Statement

The American Museum of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Museum does not discriminate with respect to employment, or admission or access to Museum facilities, programs or activities on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, marital status, partnership status, gender (including sexual harassment), sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, pregnancy and lactation accommodations, alienage or citizenship status, current or former participation in the uniformed services, status as a veteran, caregiver, pre‑employment marijuana testing, sexual and reproductive health decisions, salary history, national or ethnic origin, height, weight, or on account of any other basis prohibited by applicable City, State, or Federal law. Additional protections are afforded in employment based on arrest or conviction record, status as a victim of domestic violence, stalking and sex offenses, unemployment status, and credit history, in each case to the extent provided by law.

Open date: 07/17/2026. Position open until filled.