African American History Initiative Research Assistant

One of the leading historical societies in the country, the Missouri Historical Society is in the midst of a transformative decade. We believe public history has the power to build stronger communities, and creating incredible experiences for our visitors is central to that work. With the help of every member of the MHS team, we’re committed to expanding our efforts to share more history with more people than we ever have before.

Founded in 1866, the Missouri Historical Society operates three locations - the Missouri History Museum, Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, and the Library and Research Center. Together our locations serve as the confluence of historical perspectives and contemporary issues to inspire and engage audiences in the St. Louis region and beyond. We do that by telling local stories that focus on the history of this region and its people. This approach has led to some of the most consistently successful years in MHS’s history.

Position Summary:

This research position sits within the African American History Initiative (AAHI) at MHS as the Missouri History Museum prepares to open a major 2028 temporary exhibition about The Ville neighborhood in North St. Louis. AAHI strives to promote stories that explore various aspects of Black life and experiences throughout this region, and the AAHI Research Assistant will research, write, and support content development ahead of the exhibit opening in 2028.

This position reports to the Public Historian for the African American History Initiative and works closely with the public history department and AAHI team members. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with research about the Ville neighborhood
• Write exhibit labels that translate research into concise, compelling, public-facing storytelling
• Assist in discussing and planning experiential aspects of the gallery space
• Assist with presentations, community events, and internal and external meetings
• Compile annotated bibliographies and research primary and secondary sources

Schedule:

The AAHI Research Assistant will work a maximum of 20 hours per week through December 2027. The final schedule will be determined between the AAHI Research Assistant and their supervisor. This position will require occasional weeknight and weekend availability for public presentations, lectures, or museum events.

Skills, Education, and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in African American studies, American studies, history, museum studies, education, or a related field
• Interest in Black history with a focus on the St. Louis region
• Research and writing experience, with the ability to manage multiple research projects simultaneously
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office
• Strong communication skills 
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments within the museum
• Ability to multitask across various stages of assembling a museum exhibit (conceptual brainstorming, research, label authoring, and more)

Applicants must provide a résumé and cover letter in applying for this position.