Environmental Gallery and Exhibitions Specialist

Together, Princeton University’s High Meadows Environmental Institute (HMEI) and Humanities Initiative (PHI) seek a highly qualified Environmental Gallery and Exhibitions Specialist to lead the artistic and intellectual direction and operational functions of an art gallery/exhibition space focused on environmental themes. The incumbent will develop exhibitions and programs that engage with pressing environmental issues while fostering meaningful connections to the research and teaching priorities of HMEI and PHI and the broader Princeton University community.

In addition to curatorial responsibilities, the incumbent will manage operational aspects of the gallery collaboratively with administrative personnel.

The successful candidate will bring scholarly expertise, curatorial experience, and an interdisciplinary approach that bridges art, science, and environmental studies. This is a full-time position at the rank of Professional Specialist for an initial term of 3 years, with the possibility of reappointment.

• Conceive, research, and implement exhibitions reflecting environmental topics that align with HMEI/PHI’s shared vision for innovation and discovery at the intersection of environmental studies and the humanities.
• Identify and collaborate with artists whose work resonates with environmental scholarship and interdisciplinary inquiry.
• Manage all phases of exhibition development to mount approximately one to three shows annually, including research, artwork selection, installation, interpretive materials, and catalog or publication content.
• Produce high-quality curatorial writing, including essays, gallery texts, and educational materials.

• Work closely with HMEI/PHI leadership, faculty, and researchers to integrate the gallery’s exhibitions with teaching priorities and research initiatives.
• Facilitate opportunities for faculty and students to engage with exhibitions through coursework, workshops, and programmatic collaborations.
• Develop and lead public and academic programs, including artist talks, faculty–artist dialogues, symposia, workshops, and other interdisciplinary events.
• Collaborate with local and regional organizations on exhibition-related programming and public engagement.

• Manage day-to-day operations of a 450 square foot gallery, located in the University’s environmental studies building, including scheduling, visitor services, installation oversight, and exhibition maintenance.
• Coordinate and direct logistics for artwork handling, transport, and documentation.
• Collaborate with HMEI/PHI staff on communications, including digital content and promotional materials.
• Support strategic planning related to the gallery’s long-term programmatic vision.

• Contribute to grant applications, fundraising proposals, and reporting.
• Assist with budget planning and financial oversight for exhibitions and programming.
• Support events, cultivation activities, and donor engagement related to the gallery.

Essential Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Art History, Environmental Humanities, Visual Studies, Museum Studies, Environmental Studies, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated curatorial experience, preferably in environmentally focused art.
• Strong understanding of interdisciplinary approaches that link artistic practices with environmental science, environmental justice, sustainability, or related fields.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills suitable for both academic and public audiences.
• Experience with exhibition installation and basic art handling.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively within academic institutions or research environments.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Art History, Environmental Humanities, Visual Studies, Museum Studies, Environmental Studies, or a closely related field.
• Familiarity with sustainable exhibition practices.
• Experience developing educational or community-based programming.
• Experience with digital content creation and gallery-related communications.