Senior Scientist (Treatment Studies Research)

J. Paul Getty Trust; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 133,000 - 178,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead Treatment Studies Research focused on conservation treatments for cultural heritage. This role involves developing a robust scientific program, managing complex projects, and collaborating with international conservation professionals. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD and extensive experience in heritage conservation, analytical techniques, and project management. Join a team dedicated to advancing conservation practices while enjoying a supportive work environment with excellent benefits. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in the field of cultural heritage conservation.

Benefits

Medical, Dental and Vision insurance

403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan

Getty contribution to 401(a) retirement account

Educational Assistance

Paid Vacation, Sick and Personal Days

12 Paid Holidays

Bi-weekly Off-Fridays

On-Site Fitness Center

Community service opportunities

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of scientific research experience in heritage conservation.
• High level of experience with analytical instrumentation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage large scientific research projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee scientific projects in Treatment Studies Research.
• Manage complex projects connecting research with conservation practice.
• Lead multi-disciplinary project teams and mentor staff.

Skills

Analytical instrumentation

Project management

Research and analysis

Collaboration

Writing and publishing

Education

PhD in chemistry, materials science, geoscience, or other natural science

Tools

PyGCMS

FTIR

SEM-EDS

SEC

Thermal analysis

Job description

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Join to apply for the Senior Scientist (Treatment Studies Research) role at J. Paul Getty Trust

This range is provided by J. Paul Getty Trust. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$133,617.00/yr - $177,050.00/yr

Getty is committed to creating a welcoming workplace that reflects the various backgrounds of the communities we serve. We value differences in the pursuit of inquiry and knowledge, mutual understanding, respect, trust, transparency, and cooperation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected status.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced conservation scientist with a deep understanding of conservation treatments applied to cultural heritage to fill the position of Senior Scientist. You will be an integral member of the Getty Conservation Institute’s Science Department and will lead our recently-created Treatment Studies Research area, developing a robust scientific program focusing on the investigation and evaluation of conservation treatments for modern and contemporary heritage, and the development of more affordable and sustainable solutions for the field.

This job will be based in our laboratories and offices at the Getty Center in Los Angeles. It will begin on-site full-time and the opportunity to request a telework schedule may be available after an initial period of training and orientation and will be discussed and approved by your supervisor. Typically, staff with approved telework schedules at the Getty Conservation Institute are in the office more than half of the time.

Mission

The Getty Conservation Institute (GCI) works internationally to advance conservation practice in the visual arts—objects, collections, architecture, and sites. The Institute serves the conservation community through scientific research, education and training, field projects, and disseminating information. In all our endeavors, we create and deliver knowledge that contributes to the conservation of the world's cultural heritage.

Major Job Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and oversee all of the scientific projects within the Treatment Studies Research area, establishing research priorities, monitoring progress, and managing workflow.
• Manage complex, collaborative scientific projects—from visioning and designing to implementing and monitoring—that connect applied research with conservation practice.
• Perform at the highest level in terms of scientific standards, research and analysis, focusing on treatment approaches for modern and contemporary heritage, as well as developing more affordable and sustainable solutions for the field.
• Manage and provide direction to multi-disciplinary project teams, which include staff, interns, fellows, consultants, and project partners. Supervise and mentor multiple direct reports.
• Develop resource plans and manage project budgets, establishing activities and timelines, developing contracts, and managing deliverables and deadlines.
• Maintain a large professional network and develop strong collaborative relationships within the international conservation community.
• Decide on the best methods to broadly disseminate information resulting from projects. Undertake research, write, publish, and present at professional venues.
• Report directly to the head of the Science Department, and work closely with other Senior Scientists to guide the strategy and priorities of the department.
• Your participation in professional development opportunities is encouraged and supported through on-the-job learning, specialized training courses, and participation in professional meetings and workshops.
  
  

Qualifications

• PhD in chemistry, materials science, geoscience, or other natural science
• 10-15 years of scientific research experience in the field of heritage conservation, including demonstrated experience managing projects
  
  

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• High level of experience with a range of analytical instrumentation, especially those routinely applied to modern materials, including PyGCMS, FTIR, SEM-EDS, and other identification techniques
• High level of experience with physical characterization techniques such as SEC, thermal analysis, and mechanical testing
• Deep understanding of typical conservation treatments applied to works of art, in particular modern and contemporary heritage, and how best to apply scientific research to study and evaluate them
• Demonstrated record of managing large and complex scientific research projects, involving numerous research strands and multiple partners
• Demonstrated ability to manage people and budgets
• Must be innovative, adaptable, analytical, and a creative problem-solver and thinker
• Able to work effectively in a highly collaborative environment and lead multi-disciplinary teams
• Excellent research and writing skills and demonstrated experience authoring reports, articles, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated excellent organizational, data management, prioritization, communication, and writing skills
  
  

All candidates must apply online. Please be prepared to upload your cover letter and CV/resume when prompted to do so by the online application system. Candidates who successfully complete the online application process will receive an automated message via email. If you have questions about this position or the recruiting process, please email [e-mail].

Deadline for applications is June 9, 2025

Benefits And Perks

Here are just some examples that Getty offers/provides for full-time employees:

• Medical, Dental and Vision insurance coverage, starting on date of hire. Getty pays 75%-95% of the premium, depending on the plan selected.
• 403(b) Employee Investment retirement plan – with up to 5% Getty Match
• Getty contribution of 6%, on behalf of employee, to 401(a) retirement account
• Educational Assistance and professional development
• Paid Vacation, Sick and Personal Days
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Many positions have bi-weekly Off-Fridays
• On-Site Fitness Center at Getty Center
• Community service opportunities
  
  

To learn more about our comprehensive benefits and long list of perks, go to Getty HR .

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Research and Science

• Industries

  Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos

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