Interdisciplinary Postdoctoral Fellowship Position in Science and Art (12/1/2011 - 2/1/2012)

Closing Date: February 1, 2012

The National Gallery of Art, in conjunction with George Washington University, is offering the opportunity to join an interdisciplinary team consisting of image scientists, spectroscopists, conservation scientists, and conservators to develop novel remote sensing/imaging spectroscopy cameras and spectral imaging algorithms for identification and mapping of artists' materials in support of the fields of art conservation and art history.
A new program at the National Science Foundation in Cultural Heritage Science funds this two-year position.  The goal is to build, optimize, and validate a portable, high-sensitivity imaging system operating in the reflective near-infrared (1000 to 2500 nm) range. Its primary application will be to map and identify pigments and paint binders.
The successful candidate will have prior experience with either or both (1) spectral imaging systems and the associated image-processing techniques and (2) a basic understanding of electronic and vibrational spectroscopy of organic and inorganic pigments.
Due to its interdisciplinary nature, the experience gained from this position will also be applicable in the biomedical, industrial, and earth science fields.  The appointment will be made jointly between the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at George Washington University and the Scientific Research Department at the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.  The incumbent will gain experience at both locations.

Candidates should have a PhD in one of the physical sciences or electrical engineering. The degree must have been obtained within the last three years. Candidates must be familiar with relevant scientific methods and instrumentation.
Experience is required in some or all of the following: 
•   Scientific programming (MATLAB, C, LabVIEW)
•   Design, construction, evaluation of novel instrumentation and analysis of data
•   Signal/image processing
A strong interest in art conservation is required. English-language skills and a proven record of research and writing ability are required.  Prospective applicants must submit three letters of recommendation, CV and graduate transcript.  A letter from the candidate should also be submitted expressing why they are interested in the position and how their unique background makes them suitable. Please indicate in the cover letter clearly that you are applying for the NSF Interdisciplinary Postdoctoral Fellowship.
Finalists who are not United States citizens must provide proof of their own health insurance coverage before starting the position. 
The selection of a candidate is expected to be made by March 1st

Further information
Please visit the following link http://www.nga.gov/resources/dclsr_nsf_img.shtm 
All applications should be submitted by February 1, 2012 and selection of a candidate is expected to be made by March 1, 2012.
Applications should be addressed to: Mr. Michael Skalka Conservation Administrator, DCL National Gallery of Art, 2000B South Club Drive Landover MD 20785 dcl@nga.gov