Interpretative Research and Programs Internship

The Interpretative Research and Programs Intern will support the continued development and relaunch of the Ethical Interpretation Workshop, a signature program of the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC)/OSP. While ethical interpretation is embedded throughout the Museum’s collections, digital platforms, and exhibitions, no single exhibition exclusively focuses on this topic. This internship will play a key role in advancing both a Smithsonian-wide pilot program and a national workshop dedicated to ethical theory and practice, with particular emphasis on illustrating the historical and contemporary relationships between African American communities and the natural world.

The selected intern will contribute to the planning, coordination, and preparation of materials for these initiatives, with primary responsibilities centered on research and administrative support. As time permits, the intern may also assist in organizing and facilitating virtual or in-person professional development programs and meetups for the growing Community of Practice focused on ethical interpretation. The intern will join the planning teams for these efforts and support the development of program-related resources and communications.

Compensation: $425–850/week

Duration: January 25 – April 23, 2027

Schedule: PT (20 hours/week or less) and/or FT (30–40 hours/week)

Deadline:October 15, 2026

The ideal candidate will have some knowledge/appreciation for African American History and Public History, experience with partnership development/outreach, and research, and excellent writing and communication skills.

Desired Majors and Areas of Study:
Museum Studies, Museum Education, African American Studies, Africana/African Diaspora Studies and History, Latin American and Caribbean History, American Studies, Public History, Performance Studies;
All encouraged to apply

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by an Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans. To date, the museum has collected more than 45,000 artifacts, and nearly 300,000 individuals have become members.

The museum opened to the public on September 24, 2016, as the 19th museum of the Smithsonian Institution.