[CLOSED] Paper Conservator (Short-term Project Opportunity)

The Science Conservation Centre for Art, Faculty of Science (SCICCA), Chulalongkorn University, Thailand is seeking support from a qualified paper conservator to volunteer in a short-term conservation project involving (1) paper conservation of historic documents, archival artworks, and paper-based cultural materials, and (2) providing training to staff.

The project seeks a volunteer paper conservator to contribute to ongoing paper conservation work and to provide hands-on training and knowledge exchange for staff of the Centre and the University Library, strengthening their skills and long-term capacity in paper conservation.

Scope of Work:

• Conduct preliminary condition assessments of selected paper-based objects.
• Perform basic conservation treatments as appropriate (e.g., surface cleaning, flattening, mending, and rehousing).
• Document the conservation processes and provide recommendations for ongoing care and preventive conservation.
• Deliver practical training sessions and knowledge exchange activities for staff members.

Duration:

Approximately 8 weeks, scheduled flexibly between March-May, 2026 at Science Conservation Centre for Art, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand.

Eligibility:

• Qualified conservators or conservation students specializing in paper, book, or graphic arts conservation.
• Genuine interest in collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
• Previous hands-on experience in paper conservation is desirable but not required for student volunteers.

Volunteer Benefits & Recognition

The Science Conservation Centre for Art highly values the contribution of volunteer paper conservators and is committed to ensuring that the experience is both meaningful and professionally rewarding. Volunteers will receive the following forms of recognition and support:

1. Professional Recognition

• Official Certificate of Participation and Appreciation issued by Chulalongkorn
  University.
• Formal Letter of Reference acknowledging the volunteer’s contribution and role in the project.
• Name acknowledgment in relevant project reports, presentations, or publications.

2. Access & Experience

• Opportunity to work directly with heritage paper materials of historical and cultural significance.
• Access to fully equipped conservation laboratories, including analytical tools such as Micro-XRF, Raman, FTIR, and technical photography systems.
• Permission to document the conservation process for inclusion in a professional portfolio.

3. Knowledge Exchange & Networking

• Collaboration with conservation scientists and local professionals.
• Opportunities to conduct informal training sessions for staff and students.
• Connection with Thailand’s conservation community and partner institutions.

4. Cultural and Practical Support

• Accommodation provided during the volunteer period.
• Local assistance and hospitality from the Centre’s staff.
• Cultural immersion activities, including visits to museums and heritage sites in Bangkok.

5. Long-Term Collaboration

• Potential for future engagement as a visiting conservator or research collaborator.
• Continued professional connection through follow-up reports and joint initiatives.

To Apply:

Please send a brief introduction, CV (or résumé), and your available dates to: [email protected]
Deadline: January 31 , 2026 (Closed)

For more information about the project or the collection, please contact Dr. Nawarat Kaew-on ([email protected], [email protected]).

We warmly welcome applications from both emerging and experienced paper conservators who are passionate about sharing their expertise and supporting conservation practice in Thailand.