Reporting to the Head of Modern and Contemporary Collections in the Getty Research Institute’s Curatorial Department, develops special collections and general library collections for research on 20th-21st century American art history, working in the context of present GRI collections as well as local holdings and other related collections on American art and artists.

Within modern and contemporary, primary attention will be devoted to developing African American collections. Requires experience and demonstrated expertise in modern and contemporary history, with particular expertise in African Amerian art history; knowledge of recent research, publications, and exhibitions in both African American and in contemporary art is essential.

Makes recommendations for single works and collections for acquisition: researching, examining, and drafting proposals; similarly, assesses donations and large collections for research value, authenticity, and condition (including provenance); drafts and negotiates contracts and appropriate permissions and licenses; works collegially, and often collaboratively, with curators in the department, archivists, librarians, bibliographers, and other colleagues at the GRI and across the Getty.

Utilizes scholarly background and expertise in interpreting the collections in the preparation of exhibitions, publications, lectures, online/digital resources, and public programs. Brings a network of relationships with artists, galleries, museums, and dealers. Responds to queries concerning the collections, assists with processing decisions evaluates items requested for loan by other institutions and recommends conservation treatments.