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Maps Collection Graduate Assistant

Posting ID 148134
Department Special Collections/Library
Jobcode Graduate Research Assistant
Working Title Maps Collection Graduate Assistant
Details

Maps Collection Graduate Assistant 
Special Collections and Archives
University of Iowa Libraries


About the Maps Collection

The University of Iowa Map Collection merged with Special Collections & Archives in 2013 as a result of the changing uses and users of paper maps. The collection is local, regional, & international in scope and subject coverage is broad, from topographic maps and atlases to aerial photos, historical maps, celestial charts, and more. It is the largest collection of the kind in the state and is accessible to patrons and researchers on campus and off. Through a Carver Trust Grant in 2024, a dedicated project is underway to revitalize discovery and access to the Map Collection. As a part of the University of Iowa’s Special Collections & Archives, it is part of an extensive teaching collection and supports researchers on and off campus.

 

Position Description

The University of Iowa Libraries’ Special Collections & Archives department invites current or incoming graduate students to apply for the Maps Collection Graduate Assistantship for 2025-2026 (August 2025-June 2026), with the possibility of a second year extension.

The Maps Collection Graduate Assistant will assist the Maps Collection Librarian and Special Collections & Archives staff on-site in projects pertaining to the maps collection and Carver Trust grant project. Their work will support the grant project through activities such as identifying materials for digitization, generating metadata, expanding catalog records, providing collections care and shifting materials. They will also support map collection operations by assisting patrons and researchers, contributing to research projects, assisting map-based instruction, or supporting outreach efforts. Prior knowledge of special collections and archives, maps, GIS, or cartography are welcome but not required.

 

Qualifications

The Maps Collection Graduate Assistantship is open to incoming students who have been accepted into a graduate degree program at the University of Iowa for the upcoming Fall semester, as well as students who are currently enrolled in a graduate degree program. Students in the School of Library and Information Science or School of Earth, Environment, and Sustainability, in the University of Iowa Center for the Book, or the English, History, American Studies, and Art and Art History programs may have particular interest, but applications from students in any graduate program will be carefully considered. Please note that students currently enrolled in the U2G students (undergraduate-to-graduate) program are not eligible for the Maps Collection Research Assistant position due to funding structure requirements.

Successful candidates must also possess the following requirements:

  • Expected graduation date of May 2027 or later
  • Demonstrated interest in special collections, archives or a related field
  • Interest in learning about maps
  • Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills
  • Demonstrated skill at making progress towards goals in an environment with many competing priorities and projects
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a team-based setting where consultation, flexibility, and collaboration are essential
  •  Demonstrated commitment to a welcoming and respectful environment, in a workplace setting, and/or in the community
  • Ability to carefully physically handle and maneuver oversized materials

 

Application Details

Students wishing to apply should submit all required materials to Laura Michelson at laura-michelson@uiowa.edu.  The deadline is midnight on February 28, 2025.

1.      Current resume or CV

2.      Statement outlining the skills or talents the candidate would bring to the Special Collections and Archives department and Maps Collection, as well as outlining their academic and career aspirations in special collections or a related field, and describing how the Maps Collection Graduate Assistantship aligns with those aspirations. The statement should not exceed two (2) typed pages (under 1000 words).

3.      Contact information for two professional references who can speak to the candidate’s work experience should also be submitted.

 


Additional Information

  • Classification Title: Graduate Assistantship (FR19)
  • Appointment Type: 50% Fiscal Year
  • Term of appointment: This is a one-year, fiscal appointment to start on or after August 1, 2025, ending June 30, 2026. It is renewable for a second year starting July 1, 2026, contingent upon eligibility, satisfactory completion of all duties relating to the appointment, and satisfactory progress toward the degree.

 

 

Compensation

  • Graduate teaching and research assistant appointments or employment terms and conditions are governed by the University Operations Manual, Graduate College and Department policies, (see https://www.grad.uiowa.edu/graduate-assistant-employment (https://www.grad.uiowa.edu/graduate-assistant-employment)) and, regarding base wages, a collective bargaining agreement between the Board of Regents, State of Iowa and UE local  896/COGS.
  • Please consult https://grad.uiowa.edu/funding/graduate-assistantships-and-loans (https://grad.uiowa.edu/funding/graduate-assistantships-and-loans) for the most up to-date information.

 

Contact Information

  • Department: Special Collections and Archives, University Libraries
  • Contact Name: Laura Michelson
  • Contact Email: laura-michelson@uiowa.edu

 

 

Equal opportunity/affirmative action employer

The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, religion, associational preference, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran.

 

Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu (mailto:fsds@uiowa.edu). For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.

 

Contact LAURA MICHELSON
Email: laura-michelson@uiowa.edu
Application Instructions Students wishing to apply should submit all required materials to Laura Michelson at laura-michelson@uiowa.edu. The deadline is midnight on February 28, 2025.

1. Current resume or CV
2. Statement outlining the skills or talents the candidate would bring to the Special Collections and Archives department and Maps Collection, as well as outlining their academic and career aspirations in special collections or a related field, and describing how the Maps Collection Graduate Assistantship aligns with those aspirations. The statement should not exceed two (2) typed pages (under 1000 words).
3. Contact information for two professional references who can speak to the candidate’s work experience should also be submitted.
Ad Start Date 02/04/2025
Ad End Date 02/28/2025