Freedman Scholars: Historical Research Assistant at Case Western Reserve University

The Freedman Scholars program is a student internship where Scholars work under the guidance of full-time staff members in the Freedman Center for Digital Scholarship to provide high-quality digital scholarship consultation and reference services to the CWRU and Cleveland community. This project-specific role will be focused on completing historical research on the Freedman Center and its notable alumni, donors, and patrons in preparation for the Center's twentieth anniversary. 

Primary Responsibilities:

Working with their assigned supervisor, this position will do the following:

• Complete historical research on the Freedman Center, Kelvin Smith Library, and selected notable figures in the development of these institutions and their programs
• Apply best practices in archival research with analog and digital materials, including at University Archives, such as coherent documentation and record-keeping
• Produce a cohesive timeline of notable events and other datapoints that contribute to informational and marketing materials for outlets including the website, exhibits, social media, and signage
• Create a compelling digital and/or physical exhibit focused on the Center's twentieth anniversary, collaborating with other staff members in KSL

Term and Hours

This project-based position will run from January to August 2026. The successful applicant will work 5-10 hours a week, with the majority in person in Kelvin Smith Library between the hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. There is a strong likelihood of summer work. The undergraduate pay rate will be $13.25 an hour, and the graduate pay rate will be $15 an hour.

Required Qualifications

• Experience with historical research and document-based storytelling through formal coursework, class projects, and/or professional roles
• Experience with or openness to learning StoryMaps and Tropy
• Experience with search engines and other general fact-finding tools
• Ability to determine the reliability of a source and fact-check information to ensure high-quality and accurate information is produced
• Familiarity with documentation standards such as MLA or Chicago and willingness to use citation management tools like Zotero

• Able to work independently as well as collaboratively with a team

• Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing with peers, library staff, and patrons including valued alumni

• Sit for an extended period; there is the possibility of moderate lifting of boxes and other materials

The Freedman Scholars program is supported by an endowment from Walter Freedman and Karen Harrison.

Apply on Interfolio with a 1-page resume that includes relevant coursework and/or professional experience and a 1-page cover letter that speaks directly to the required and, if applicable, preferred qualifications in the job description. Applicants selected to move on will be contacted for an interview. Questions should be directed to the Director of the Freedman Center: Kate Ozment [email protected].