About the Museum
Founded in 2014, the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto is dedicated to sparking wonder, curiosity, and understanding of Muslim cultures and their connections with other cultures through the arts. Through its exhibitions, public programs, and education initiatives, the Museum fosters intercultural dialogue and understanding — to impact lives and contribute to more inclusive and peaceful societies.
About the Placement
Working closely with the Curatorial and Exhibitions team, the intern will support research and planning for an upcoming exhibition drawing on historical records, archival materials, audiovisual materials (including interviews), and historical and contemporary artworks. The placement provides experience with exhibition research, interpretive development, and aspects of the museum loan process.
Responsibilities may include:
- Exhibition and Archival Research: Conduct research related to historical materials, archival records, and potential exhibition objects. Assist in identifying relevant collections, institutions, and reference materials to support exhibition development.
- Research Presentations and Summaries: Prepare concise research summaries and presentations on key readings and thematic topics to support internal exhibition development, discussion, and planning.
- Object and Loan Tracking: Assist in organizing research files, exhibition checklists, image references, and documentation related to proposed loans and collections research.
- Interpretation and Educational Support: Assist in developing interpretive and educational materials by adapting research and historical content into clear, accessible, and audience-focused formats.
- Professional Learning and Museum Experience: Participate in professional networking and learning sessions with select staff across departments and join guided tours of the Collection Gallery and temporary exhibitions to gain broader museum experience.
Requirements
- Interest in museum studies, art history, global history, architecture, archival and biographical research.
- Strong research, writing, and organizational skills.
- Comfort working collaboratively and independently.
- Familiarity with Word and Excel or Google Sheets for tracking research.
Timing or hours of placement: The placement is roughly 8hrs per week during the Fall 2026 semester (September to December). The gallery is closed on Mondays. Otherwise, precise days/times in placement to be discussed with the partner prior to the start of term.
Credit: Half credit (0.5). This internship is for course credit at the University of Toronto through the Department of Art History. Only University of Toronto students are eligible. This is not a paid position.
Interested students should submit an application here by Friday, June 5, 2026. Applications can be addressed to Professor Jessica Mace and Professor Heba Mostafa, and should include 1) a cover letter (including any relevant coursework or experience) and 2) a resume.