Of Africa Summer Internship (3-month contract)

WHO WE ARE
Opened in 1914 and welcoming over 1.3 million visitors annually, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada's most-visited museum, ranking among the top 10 cultural institutions in North America. At ROM, we are dedicated to building and sharing global collections, sharing knowledge, inspiring learning, and fostering community engagement. As a globally recognized field research institute, ROM houses an impressive collection of over 18 million artworks, cultural objects, and natural history specimens, showcased in over 40 galleries and exhibition spaces. We are committed to creating a space where art, culture, and nature intersect, connecting people and communities to the past, present and shared future.

As we continue to work toward our goals to transform and evolve as one of the world’s foremost 21st-century museums, we seek passionate and dynamic team members who embody our mission and values.

WHO WE NEED

As the "Of Africa" Intern, you will support the Department of Art & Culture in advancing research initiatives related to the Global Africa collection. Working under the supervision of the Curator of Global Africa and in collaboration with collections staff, you will contribute to research projects that deepen understanding of objects within the collection and help address historical knowledge gaps resulting from earlier collecting practices. 

This summer internship offers hands-on experience in collections research, critical object analysis, and museum scholarship. You will support research on heritage musical instruments and royal objects while contributing to a literature review on the repatriation of African cultural heritage. The role provides valuable exposure to curatorial research methodologies and collections-based scholarship within a collaborative museum environment. 

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT

• Assist with research to support the updating and development of interpretive information for heritage musical instruments within the Global Africa collection. 
• Support research initiatives focused on royal objects connected to African kingdoms, contributing to expanded object knowledge and contextual interpretation. 
• Contribute to the development of a literature review examining repatriation discourse related to African cultural heritage. 
• Assist with reviewing, organizing, and synthesizing research findings to support curatorial projects and collections initiatives. 
• Provide support for collection-related activities, including artist engagements, workshops, tours, and other research-driven initiatives as required. 
• Collaborate with curatorial and collections staff on additional research projects and priority tasks. 

WHAT YOU BRING

• Currently enrolled in or recently completed a BA, MA, or PhD in African Art History, African History, Museum Studies, African, Black or Caribbean Studies, Anthropology, Ethnomusicology, or a related field. 
• Demonstrated interest in African material culture, museum collections, or critical heritage studies supported by academic coursework or research experience. 
• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills with the ability to synthesize complex information. 
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills with strong attention to detail. 
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment. 
• Comfort working with research materials and contributing to scholarly projects. 

SALARY & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

• START DATE: as early as June 1, 2026 
• END DATE: as late as August 31, 2026 
• OPEN DATE: March 6, 2026
• CLOSE DATE: April 3, 2026
• STATUS: Full-time Contract 
• EMPLOYEE GROUP: Non-Union 
• EXPECTED COMPENSATION: $20/hour (BA) | $22/hour (MA) | $24/hour (PhD) 
• PROBATIONARY PERIOD: The internship period will serve as the evaluation period for this role. 
• LOCATION (onsite): Toronto, ON 

WHAT TO EXPECT IN OUR INTERVIEW PROCESS

1. Initial conversation: A 30-minute virtual conversation** with a Recruiter to discuss your interest in the role and ROM and how you can make an impact. 

2. First interview: A 30-minute virtual panel-style interview with the hiring team. This in-depth interview will focus on your skills and how they align with the team's and ROM's needs. 

The above-listed process may change or vary based on the nature and scope of the position.

**All virtual conversations and interviews will be conducted via Microsoft Teams and may be recorded.**

WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE ROM

• Cultural engagement: Daily interactions with Toronto's diverse culture and international visitors offer insights into social and cultural trends. We champion inclusive community programs and connections through diverse experiences.
• Continuous learning: At ROM, expertise and continuous skill development are paramount. Our culture of curiosity and open-mindedness fosters growth beyond traditional career paths.
• Passion & fulfillment: Our work in preserving and curating cultural narratives brings deep satisfaction. We are passionate about the arts, global history, cultural diversity, and leveraging digital technologies to enhance accessibility.
• Team & culture: ROM promotes a positive workplace with collaborative, supportive teams that encourage creativity and innovation. We value new ideas and collective problem-solving.
• Academic collaboration: We are committed to education, partnering with universities and providing student resources, underscoring our dedication to research and accessibility.

If you’re excited about this role, even if your experience differs from the specific requirements, we encourage you to apply. We’re keen to meet candidates who can contribute their talents to our goals, and will consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, & ACCESSIBILITY
At ROM, we embrace diversity in our exhibits, communities, and teams. We encourage applications from racialized persons, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and those who can further diversify our ideas. We are committed to equitable employment opportunities and a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

We welcome and accommodate candidates with disabilities throughout the selection process. Please contact us at for assistance.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• ROM does not require “Canadian experience.” International applicants with equivalent experience are encouraged to apply.
• ROM uses technology-assisted tools (including JazzHR TalentFit) to support the review and screening of applications. All hiring decisions are made by human reviewers.
• This posting is for an existing vacancy.

You must include a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest, and an updated CV.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that all candidates receiving a verbal job offer will be subject to a background check. This includes a criminal background check and verification of professional references, and other checks depending on the role.

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