Organizer Information
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s leading art museums, renowned for its comprehensive collections spanning global art traditions, cultures, and historical periods. Founded in 1879, the museum serves as a hub for scholarship, public engagement, and creative exploration. The Department of Arts of Africa manages an extensive collection of African visual culture, including nearly 200 Islamic Art objects from Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Kenya, and Cote d’Ivoire. The museum is committed to fostering inclusivity, diversity, and scholarly excellence across all curatorial, educational, and research programs.Title & Description
Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Curatorial Fellow in Arts of Africa, Islamic Art
This Fellowship offers a three-year, postdoctoral research opportunity for emerging museum professionals and scholars to investigate underrepresented areas of African Islamic Art. The Fellow will engage in advanced research, collection development, exhibition planning, and scholarly publication, expanding the museum’s narratives around Africa’s diverse visual cultures. The program emphasizes critical curatorial thinking, collaborative research, and the ability to translate academic knowledge into institutional practice. Fellows will also contribute to redefining the scope of Islamic Art in African contexts within Western museum settings.Position & Tasks
- Conduct object-based, archival, and comparative research on Islamic Art within the Arts of Africa collection.
- Update physical object files and digital records in preparation for exhibitions and online publication.
- Draft didactic materials for the gallery and museum website.
- Collaborate with curators to develop proposals for gallery rotations and temporary exhibitions.
- Identify gaps in the collection and assist in acquisition planning, loans, or gifts.
- Establish professional relationships with local and international stakeholders including curators, scholars, and collectors.
- Present research findings at conferences, scholarly convenings, and public events.
- Work collaboratively with other museum departments, such as Textiles, Arts of Asia, and Conservation, on interdisciplinary projects.
- Conduct independent research projects aligned with fellowship objectives.
- Travel for research, conferences, and art fairs as necessary.
Categories
Curatorial, Visual Arts, Research, African Art, Islamic Art, Art ManagementEligibility
- Postdoctoral or advanced degree in Art History, African Studies, Islamic Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, or related fields.
- Reading fluency in Arabic; additional languages relevant to African Islamic Art are advantageous.
- Strong research record and interest in museum work.
- Ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and work in an inclusive environment.
- Legal eligibility to work in the United States.
Program Benefits & Awards
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Three-year Fellowship with a competitive stipend
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Modest relocation allowance and funds for research/professional development
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Opportunity to conduct independent research projects
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Mentorship and networking with museum professionals and international scholars
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Leadership experience in curatorial research and collection development
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Exposure to interdisciplinary museum departments and global African Art networks
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Participation in exhibitions, publications, and public programming
Application Fee
NoneApplication Requirements
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic background and professional experience
- Cover letter outlining interest, qualifications, and research focus
- List of three references
- All documents compiled into a single PDF for submission
- Optional writing samples may be requested upon invitation to interview
How to Apply?
Online ApplicationKey Dates
- Application Deadline: February 28, 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: Flexible, ideally late summer/fall 2026
- Duration: Three years
Location
Chicago, United StatesAdditional Details
- The fellowship emphasizes research in underrepresented areas of African Islamic Art.
- Fellows may collaborate with multiple museum departments and participate in exhibitions, publications, and public programming.
- Some travel is expected for research, fieldwork, and conferences.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is central to the fellowship.
- This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by AFSCME Council 31.