Historian of Life Sciences

The Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Archives, with the support of the Goelet Family Trust, seeks to fill a two-year Historian of Sciences position (with a possibility of extension) to assess historical collections of original materials in our Archive, participate in writing grants for history of science projects, and contribute to the activities of our Center for Humanities & History of Modern Biology. 

 

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory has been home to research in the life sciences since 1890 and the CSHL Archives (https://www.cshl.edu/archives/) houses a rich repository of materials documenting this work. In addition, the collection includes materials relating to the development of molecular biology and genetics, among them are the papers of major figures in recent development of genetics, for example, those of Sydney Brenner, Carol Greider, Matthew Meselson and James Watson. These materials provide deep insight into the history of molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology.

 

We are focused on creating a “living history” of important aspects of molecular biology and genetics research that blend the traditional discussions of current scientific research with lectures on the history of science; scholarly works; using our collections in public exhibitions; and scientific meetings in which the pioneers of the field interact with the current scientific community.

The Center for Humanities and the History of Modern Biology promotes humanistic understandings of modern biology and medicine and offers a variety of educational programs. We organize public events, host virtual and physical exhibitions, and create and publish resources for popular and scholarly audiences. 

Duties and Responsibilities: 

- Survey the Archives’ collections and assess their historical, cultural, and scientific importance and contribute to expansion of the Guide to the CSHL Historical Collections.

- Participate in collective planning for the Archives and the CSHL Center for Humanities & History of Modern Biology and in writing grant applications to support these plans. 

- Contribute to the activities of the Center by participating in the educational programs

- Presenting scholarly talks at meetings and preparing publications that highlight the contents of the CSHL collection, and carry out research

- Develop college-level teaching materials that employ CSHL historical collections.

Education: a Ph.D. in History of Science (or a related field) is required.

  

 Experience: 1-3 years of professional experience. Preference will be given to candidates with a background in life sciences. Experience in writing for both general and scholarly audiences is required.

  

 Required skills: Historical research and analysis. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Experience applying for grants and/or fellowships.

  

 Please apply for the position via the CSHL careers website at:

 http://cshl.peopleadmin.com/postings/17355

  

 Position Number 00492-E

  

 Applications will be reviewed as soon as they arrive. We hope to appoint the chosen candidate as soon as they are available.

  

 For any questions about the position, please email Ludmila Pollock, Executive Director of CSHL Library and Archives.

  

  

 We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.

  

 The CSHL Archives ( http://library.cshl.edu/archives ) has been recognized consistently over the last three decades through substantial support from our institution, government agencies, foundations, and private donors for its programs and projects. Through this generous support, we have been able to preserve our collections, create exhibitions, initiate and successfully complete many digital projects, and develop outstanding educational and academic programs.

 

 

 For more information about CSHL, please visit us at www.cshl.edu.

 

 You are required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 as a condition to your employment at the Laboratory, except in instances where you have a qualifying medical condition or sincerely held religious belief, practice, or observance that is contrary to receiving the vaccine. You will be required to provide proof of your vaccination on your first day of employment. For those individuals, who are unable to receive a vaccine due to access issues, they will be expected to receive the vaccine upon arrival in New York.

 CSHL is an EO/AA Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or protected veteran status. 

  

 VEVRAA Federal Contractor