Fulbright-National Archives Heritage Science Fellowship

The Fulbright-National Archives Heritage Science Fellowship, a component of the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program, provides an opportunity for Fulbright visiting scholars to connect with National Archives scientists and experts while conducting research at the National Archives’ state-of-the-art Heritage Science Research and Testing Lab in College Park, Maryland. This Fellowship is made possible through a partnership between the U.S. Department of State and the National Archives and Records Administration.  The award was established to support archival science education, conservation, and research.

The selected Fellow will work in the Heritage Science Research and Testing Laboratory of the National Archives, a state of the art facility focused on scientific research to assist in the conservation, preservation, and ongoing public accessibility of cultural and historic artifacts, records, and documents.

Heritage science is an interdisciplinary field spanning the humanities and sciences. It focuses on enhancing the care, use, and management of cultural and historic objects using the tools and technology of math, science and engineering disciplines.

Award Activity

The Fellow will work with a team of heritage science experts and get hands-on laboratory experience. Scientists work collaboratively with a variety of units within the archives and with other Washington, D.C.-area universities and government agency partners on a diverse range of projects that leverage their expertise in analytical chemistry, physics, computational modeling and materials science. The National Archives collection includes materials ranging from paper and parchment to photographs, modern film, magnetic audio/visual tapes and digital files. Increasing knowledge about the collections and how to reduce the risks of damage and loss are the inspiration for research projects.

Scientists are also active in professional organizations and regularly present and publish work that benefits the heritage science community. The Fellow will be encouraged to participate by presenting their progress, collaborating on publications, and building peer networks. Strong applicants will be emerging or established experts in scientific and technical fields relevant to heritage preservation and conservation, with projects that align with the work and goals of the National Archives Heritage Science Research and Testing Laboratory. Current project interests include sustainable environmental (temperature and humidity) management, developing early mold detection systems, and polymer characterization and aging. Past experience with heritage science or archival research is preferred, but not required.  High quality projects will contribute to international collaborations in heritage science, and build relationships with U.S. experts and institutions.