The NAPGRA assistant will be responsible for conducting a full review of the collection objects and accession group potentially connected to Native American tribes and subject to the Native American Grave Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). As part of this review, they will conduct collections-based research including archival research, close examination of objects, and consultation with academic and community experts. They will produce detailed reports for their research and identify which objects or collections require further consultation to determine cultural affiliation. The NAGPRA assistant will use this review to assess the museum’s history of communications with Tribes and will be responsible for reaching out to Tribal representatives to reopen or initiate consultations as needed. Working with the museum director, they will draft updated or new NAGPRA summaries, respond to requisitions for additional information, provide images or videos of collections, and assist with in-person collection visits as needed. The NAGPRA assistant may also assist with review of repatriation requests and drafting of Notice of Intent to Repatriate.
Successful applicants must demonstrate knowledge of NAGPRA regulations and have experience working in museum collections. Experience investigating museum collection histories and addressing NAGPRA compliance issues preferred. Applicants will be assessed by their ability to manage projects, demonstration of skills conducting collection-based research, ability to work with databases and efficiently and accurately manage data, and demonstration of ability to communicate clearly through writing. Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic integrity and comply with professional ethical guidelines. Preference will be given to candidates with documented experience working with contemporary Native American tribes and who demonstrate an understanding of the history and ongoing legacy of the relation between museums and Native American communities.
