The Art Institute of Chicago is pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for a three-year (2026-2029) Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Curatorial Fellowship in the department of Arts of Africa.
The fellow will work with the department to advance new avenues of research and collection development focusing on artistic traditions grounded in Africa’s Islamic heritage, interrogating the boundaries of the field and the ways in which the category of Islamic art is defined.
The successful candidate will hold an advanced degree (Master’s level or beyond) in art history, Islamic studies, Middle Eastern studies, African studies, history, anthropology, or a closely related field with a strong research focus on Islamic art produced on the African continent. The full position description and requirements can be found here.
To ensure the fullest possible consideration, applicants should apply by Friday, February 27, 2026.




