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Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
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Department of Paleobiology

Opportunities

Visiting Researcher

The Department welcomes qualified scholars and professionals from around the world who are interested in utilizing the collections and facilities of the NMNH for on-site research and study.  Visiting researchers must request a visit well in advance of the anticipated arrival to ensure approvals, availability of collections, appropriate workspace, and other details. Researchers must comply with all export compliance regulations.

For additional information and guidelines visit our Collections Access page.

Fellowships

Fellowships provide an opportunity for scholars to conduct resident, independent study under the guidance of an NMNH staff advisor. 

The Department hosts fellows through the Peter Buck Fellowship Program for full-time, resident, independent research focused on utilizing the NMNH collections and facilities.

Multi-year postdoctoral fellowships are generally awarded, often paired with first year awards through the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP), to external postdoctoral scholars who have received a Ph.D. or equivalent within the last five years. 

 

The Deep Time Buck Fellowship Program awards two-year research fellowships (postdoctoral) in Paleobiology relating to the goals of the NMNH Deep Time Initiative. This fellowship involves 75 percent time commitment to research and 25 percent time commitment toward advancing science education at NMNH through direct interaction with our public. 

Fellowships for research and study in the Department are available through the Smithsonian Institution Fellowship Program (SIFP), which provides funding for graduate students, post-doctoral scholars, and senior investigators to conduct research in association with Smithsonian scientists. Fellowship durations range from three months to three years depending on fellowship category.

For a complete listing of fellowship opportunities available for placement at NMNH visit the Smithsonian Office of Fellowships.

Internships

Internships offer undergraduate, graduate and advanced high school students a mentor-guided experience designed to meet their learning objectives. Internships can vary in length, commitment, and educational prerequisites. Some internships include a stipend, which can vary in amount; some are unpaid. In addition to onsite internships, there are listings for virtual opportunities for anyone unable to relocate.

Students selected for participation in the Natural History Research Experiences (NHRE) may be placed in the Department of Paleobiology. NHRE is a 10-week summer internship program for non-senior undergraduates hosted at the NMNH in Washington DC. NHRE interns work closely with scientific mentors to complete independent research projects and present their findings to museum staff and public. Additional events include lectures, tours of museum collections, and other activities related to Natural History research. NHRE is committed to ensuring equitable opportunities and fostering inclusivity for underrepresented and historically excluded groups in science.

A variety of other internship opportunities are available, including paid and unpaid appointments, resident and virtual projects, and short and long-term tenure.

For a complete listing of internship opportunities at NMNH visit the Smithsonian Office of Internship Programs and select 'National Museum of Natural History' under Unit.

Volunteering

The Department hosts many volunteers who assist in research and collections task.  A minimum commitment of 3 consecutive months is required and at least 6 hours per week.

For more information about volunteering visit our volunteer page.

Contracting

There are currently no contracting opportunities within the Department of Paleobiology. 

Jobs

The Smithsonian is always seeking creative and diverse candidates for a variety of positions. View Current Openings 

Giving

By supporting the department's renowned research, exhibitions, educational outreach, and the talented experts behind this work, you strengthen some of the greatest assets for addressing the challenges of our rapidly changing planet. 

For questions or more information, please contact us at 202-633-0821 or nhadvancement@si.edu. 

Gifts can be made on our website. Please indicate Paleobiology in the "Apply my donation to" field. 

To send a check, please make payable to "Smithsonian Institution" and write "NMNH Paleobiology" in the memo line. You may mail to 

Smithsonian Institution 
National Museum of Natural History
PO Box 418320
Boston, MA 02241-8320