Organizer Information
The ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe is one of Europe’s leading institutions dedicated to the intersection of Art, science, and technology. Based in Karlsruhe, Germany, ZKM operates as a hybrid museum, research center, and production space focusing on contemporary Media Art and interdisciplinary cultural practices.
The curatorial department is responsible for developing a dynamic exhibition program spanning over 10,000 m². These Exhibitions explore thematic and monographic approaches that address urgent developments in art, technology, and society. ZKM is internationally recognized for its experimental exhibition formats and its strong emphasis on collaboration between artists, researchers, and institutions worldwide.
Title & Description
Academic Curatorial Traineeship (m/f/d) – ZKM Karlsruhe
This two-year academic traineeship offers emerging cultural professionals the opportunity to gain structured, hands-on experience in the field of Curatorial practice within a leading international art institution.
Participants will support the development, organization, and implementation of institutional Exhibitions and related public programs. The traineeship combines practical curatorial work with theoretical learning, focusing on Media Art, interdisciplinary research, and innovative exhibition-making.
Trainees will engage in the full curatorial cycle—from conceptual development and research to spatial design and mediation strategies—while working closely with artists, curators, educators, and technical teams. The program is designed to provide deep insight into how large-scale exhibitions are produced within a complex cultural institution.
The Role Overview
- Position: Academic Curatorial Traineeship (m/f/d)
- Duration: 2 years
- Contract Type: Paid public-sector traineeship (TVöD system)
- Salary: EG 13 (50%) – Level 1 in year one, Level 2 in year two
- Reporting to: Curatorial Department, ZKM Karlsruhe
- Programme Type: Professional training in curatorial practice
- Work Model: Hybrid (on-site + remote options)
- Institution: ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe
- Start Date: 01 September 2026 (or by arrangement)
Position & Tasks
- Supporting the conception and development of institutional Exhibitions
- Assisting in curatorial research on Media Art, science, and technology
- Contributing to the preparation and implementation of exhibition projects and events
- Participating in cross-departmental collaboration with education, technology, and publication teams
- Assisting in spatial design and narrative structuring of exhibitions
- Writing and editing curatorial and educational materials
- Supporting mediation formats aimed at diverse public audiences
- Engaging in international collaboration with artists and research institutions
- Assisting in administrative and organizational curatorial workflows
Categories
- Curatorial
- Media Arts
- Visual Arts
- Interdisciplinary Arts
- Research
- Exhibitions
- Writing
- Technology
- Education
Eligibility
- University degree in art history, media theory, or related disciplines
- Strong interest in Media Art and techno-cultural discourse
- Initial professional experience in museums or Exhibitions (preferred)
- Excellent German and English language skills
- Strong writing, editing, and communication abilities
- High organizational skills and independent working style
- Ability to work under structured institutional conditions
- Familiarity with contemporary international art contexts
Program Benefits
- Paid 2-year traineeship within a major international institution
- Structured training and professional mentorship
- Direct involvement in large-scale exhibition production
- Access to interdisciplinary curatorial workflows
- Hybrid working model with flexible hours
- Public-sector employment benefits (pension, paid leave, bonuses)
- Transport subsidy and workplace support
- Exposure to international networks in Media Art and curatorial practice
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover letter
- Academic certificates
- Proof of qualifications
- Writing samples (recommended)
- Online application form submission
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 30 June 2026
- Start Date: 01 September 2026 (or by arrangement)
- Duration: 2 years
Location
Karlsruhe, Germany
Additional Details
ZKM promotes diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity employment. Applications from candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged, and individuals with disabilities will be given equal consideration.
The traineeship emphasizes interdisciplinary practice, combining curatorial theory with hands-on production of Exhibitions in the fields of Art, science, and technology. Participants will work in a highly collaborative environment involving international artists and researchers.