Archaeology Research Internship

An ARI Archaeology Research Internship provides students or recent graduates with hands-on experience in the field of archaeology while allowing them to contribute to the creation of research projects. Interns will assist with research, data collection, and fieldwork, helping to design and develop project concepts related to archaeological sites or artifacts. Responsibilities may include cataloging finds, conducting literature reviews, preparing materials for public education, and supporting senior researchers with project management tasks. Additionally, interns will have the opportunity to create and present their own research projects, exploring specific topics of interest within the field. This role offers valuable experience in archaeological techniques, laboratory analysis, and the preservation of artifacts, while gaining insight into the collaborative nature of archaeological research and project development. This internship is ideal for individuals pursuing a career in archaeology, anthropology, or related fields. 

Work Hours 

The internship entails a commitment of no more than 20 hours per week over a maximum 16-week period, with a flexible schedule within the organization’s operational hours (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday). Occasional evening and weekend work may be necessary for events. Alternatively, the parameters of the internship may be set by the applicant’s university or institution.  We will gladly work with students to ensure they meet minimum requirements to earn institutional credit for their internship. 

Public Archaeology Internships will be offered on the following schedule: 

*Primitive camping accommodations are available to summer interns.  Please indicate on your application if you are interested in this opportunity. 

Location: Lawrenceburg, Indiana, with occasional travel to locations within the tri-state area. 

Supervisor: Director of Public Archaeology, Archaeology Coordinator, and relevant ArchaeoCorps Project Area Manager. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The Research Intern will be expected to complete an in-depth research project that is relevant to ARI, the archaeology of our region, and public archaeology. This project will be completed and ready to implement within the internship timeframe. ARI is particularly interested in research topics in the following areas: 

• Development of a public-facing educational program integrated into the Archaeological Research Institute’s archaeology educational programming.  

• Analysis and detailed research on artifacts recovered during field investigations in order to facilitate final report writing by senior staff. 

• Development and implementation of material-specific curatorial practices in ARI’s laboratory.  

• Applying information from previous investigations to broader regional models. 

• In-depth research on local Lawrenceburg history, geology, archaeological resources, or specific focus on any of ARI’s current research areas. 

• Any topic that can be presented at professional local and regional conferences.  

Compensation:  

Compensation for the Research Intern position is dependent on the level of research expected of the applicants and the work they will be completing for ARI. 

Compensation Rates: 

• Bachelor’s Degree Interns – $12.50/hour
  • Graduate Interns – $15.00/hour
  Hours:
  • Max: 20 hours per week
  • Min: 8 hours per week 

If you are interested in a more general, unpaid, opportunity that is designed to provide archaeological experience, please see the application for Public Archaeology Internship.  

Physical Demands: Archaeological field work involves physical labor, requiring a certain level of fitness, including (but not limited to) working in all weather conditions, stooping, kneeling, crouching, working at a computer station, and walking on uneven terrain. 

*Reasonable accommodation can be arranged to enable individuals with disabilities to fulfil their essential duties. Please contact us to discuss any specific circumstances that need consideration.