The Mississippi Department of Archives & History welcomes an intern to join the archaeology section of the Historic Preservation division as a NAGPRA Research Assistant. This Intern will assist collections staff in the systematic research of collections history, maps, and archaeological excavation reports to support the Archaeology team in our efforts to inventory and repatriate more than 100 years of archaeological collections from the state of Mississippi. Interns will gain familiarity and experience in technical writing, provenance research, archaeological methods, and NAGPRA regulations, as well as participating in consultation with tribal descendant communities.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Critically review and analyze collection information to assist in determining NAGPRA eligibility
- Conduct research through a variety of mediums, including archival documents, archaeology site reports, topographic maps, and primary source material
- Assist with preparing collection history documentation for Tribal consultation
Required Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in an accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree program, preferably in anthropology, archaeology, or a related field
- Familiarity with basic Microsoft programs and Adobe PDF Reader
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- The ability to work independently with attention to detail
- Ability to work respectfully with culturally sensitive information and will be expected to adhere to state confidentiality law regarding archaeological site locations.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Archaeology field school or comparable field experience
- Knowledge of archaeological methods and experience working with archaeological collections
- Technical Writing skills
Time Commitment:
This internship spans from September 14 to December 4, with a requirement of 140 in-person hours at our Jackson, Mississippi campus. Working hours are flexible, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The specific schedule will be established in accordance with the availability and mutual agreement between the intern and MDAH staff.
How to Apply:
Submit an online application through the MDAH website by August 7, 2026.
For more information, please contact Meredith Kent, HR Programs Manager, at (601) 576-7304 or mekent@mdah.ms.gov.
