Calling graduate students looking to chart their next year!
Applications are open for two graduate assistantships for hands on work in the University of Iowa Special Collections and Archives. In addition to the Olson Graduate Research Assistant search, we are seeking a graduate student to help navigate the Map Collection. Find the full postings on Handshake and a closer look below.
About the Maps Collection at University of Iowa Libraries Special Collections and Archives
The University of Iowa Map Collection merged with Special Collections and Archives in 2013 as a result of the changing uses and users of paper maps. The collection is local, regional, and 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 its kind in the state and is accessible to patrons and researchers on campus and off. Through a Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust Grant in 2024, a dedicated project is underway to revitalize discovery and access to the Map Collection. As a part Special Collections and 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 and Archives invites current or incoming graduate students to apply for the Maps Collection Graduate Assistantship for 2025–2026 (August 2025–July 2026), with the possibility of an extension to summer 2027.
The Maps Collection Graduate Assistant will assist the maps collection librarian and Special Collections and Archives staff with on-site projects pertaining to the collection and Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust grant project. Their work will support the 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 welcomed 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, new School of Earth, Environment, and Sustainability, and 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 Feb. 28, 2025.
· Current resume or CV
· Statement outlining the skills or talents the candidate would bring to the Special Collections and Archives department and Map 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).
· Contact information for two professional references who can speak to the candidate’s work experience should also be submitted.
For more, see the full posting for the Maps Collection Graduate Assistant on Handshake here.
Eligible graduate students are welcome to submit applications for both Special Collections and Archives Graduate Assistant positions. Learn more about the Olson Graduate Assistantship on Special Collections and Archives website.