David W. and Mary S. Benfer Curatorial Research Fellow

Department

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is located in Sarasota, Florida, and is a department of Florida State University.

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art is located in Sarasota, Florida, and is a department of Florida State University.

The David W. and Mary S. Benfer Curatorial Research Fellow, a 9 to 12-month visiting A&P appointment, will report to the Chief Curator.
A full-time member of The Ringling's Curatorial staff, the fellow will assist the Chief Curator with the research, documentation, interpretation, and display of works in The Ringling's pre-1900 collection of European and American painting, sculpture, and works on paper.
Provides research support for curatorial work relating to The Ringling's permanent collections of pre-1900 European and American painting, sculpture and works on paper, including the ongoing, multi-year project to reinstall the original 21 permanent collection galleries of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, and upcoming exhibitions, programs, and publications.
Provides research and general support for day-to-day curatorial work relating to the permanent collections of pre-1900 European and American painting, sculpture and works on paper. Under the guidance of the Chief Curator, assists in documenting these permanent collections and in responding to inquiries relating to them. Assists in evaluating requests for loans of work from the permanent collection, artworks for potential acquisition, and substitutions of artwork in galleries.

May assist with grant proposal preparation and grant applications. Provides general curatorial research and planning support for projects involving the permanent collections.
May lead gallery talks and/or give lectures about curatorial work and research findings. May pursue publishing opportunities related to their work. Participates in special projects and other duties that support museum operations as assigned.

Bachelor's degree in Art History, Museum Studies, or a related field and two years of relevant experience.

• Master's degree in Art History
• Advanced reading knowledge of one or more European languages
• Knowledge of collection database programs such as TMS
• Advanced research, writing, and communication skills
• High level of attention to detail
• Ability to:
  • Prioritize and organize work to meet project deadlines
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships
  • Understand and interpret terminology related to area of work

The anticipated start date for this fellowship is January 2027.

For more information or technical assistance, please contact Ringling Human Resources via email or by calling .

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking. Founded in 1851, Florida State University is the oldest continuous site of higher education in Florida. FSU is a community steeped in tradition that fosters research and encourages creativity.

At FSU, there's the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow’s news!

The salary for this one-year appointment is $51,500.

FSU offers a robust Total Rewards package. Visit our FSU Total Rewards website to learn more about our Compensation, Benefits, Wellness, Recognition, and Employee Development programs. Use our FSU Total Compensation Calculator to calculate Total Compensation options based on potential salary, benefits and retirement contributions, earned leave, and other employment-related perks.

• This is a one-year, time-limited A&P position.
• This position requires successful completion of a criminal history background check.
• Work Location:
  
  Sarasota, FL

• Monday - Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with a one-hour meal period.

FSU is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.