Internships
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History (NMAH) offers challenging and exciting opportunities to pre-program and current conservation students looking to advance their careers in the field. Conservation internships are offered for books and paper, textiles and costumes, and objects.
The NMAH has a vast collection comprised of a wide variety of three-dimensional objects, paper-based artifacts, textiles, and costumes. Interns are encouraged to explore a range of conservation activities and materials by rotating between our three conservation laboratories.
Interns receive mentorship by NMAH conservators, who introduce interns and volunteers to the multifaceted nature of conservation through hands-on practical work including:
• Exhibit preparation and rehousing
• Artifact survey and treatment documentation
• Conservation photography
• Preventive and conservation treatment
