The International Council of Museums (ICOM) has opened applications for its ICOM Academy Scientific Board. The ICOM Academy is designed to support training and professional development for museum professionals globally, offering free courses and resources created by experts from ICOM’s committees, regional groups, and partner institutions.
The Scientific Board will act as the main advisory group for the ICOM Academy. Its responsibilities include guiding the curriculum, approving course content, selecting subject experts, ensuring diversity in learning materials, reviewing annual progress, and making recommendations to the ICOM Secretariat about future courses.
According to ICOM, “The composition of the Scientific Board shall be guided by the following criteria: Balance representation between museum professionals and academic experts (university professors, researchers, PhDs) with a strong background in e-learning; Geographical diversity, with members from all ICOM regions; Linguistic diversity, with proficiency in at least one of ICOM’s official languages (English, French, or Spanish); Gender balance, in line with ICOM’s values and commitment to inclusivity; Professional experience, with preference for candidates having five (5) to ten (10) years of relevant experience in museum work, capacity building and/or e-learning. To ensure alignment with contemporary practices, applicants must demonstrate active professional engagement in e-learning, education or digital training.”
The board will have between five and seven members who are current ICOM members. One member will serve as Chair. Members are expected to meet online at least twice per year and actively participate between meetings. The working language is English. Terms last three years starting 2026 and can be renewed once.
To apply for the Scientific Board position, candidates must be current members of ICOM in good standing. They should have experience in museums or related academic fields—especially in e-learning or digital training within the last ten years—and fluency in English, French or Spanish.
Applications require a completed form submitted online by January 31, 2026. Applicants should also submit a CV, short biography and motivation statement outlining their interest in joining the board.
ICOM states that “All applications will be reviewed by ICOM… Selected candidates will be formally appointed by the ICOM Executive Board in June 2026.” The selection process aims for fair representation across regions and expertise areas.
The call was launched on November 14, 2025; evaluation takes place from February through May 2026; final selections are announced in June 2026.
For questions about this opportunity or more information on how to apply visit the official announcement.
“We warmly encourage all ICOM members who are passionate about learning, collaboration and innovation in the museum field to apply,” said an official statement from ICOM. “By joining the Scientific Board you will play a key role in shaping the vision and academic direction of the ICOM Academy — helping to build a global space for knowledge exchange and professional growth that empowers museum professionals everywhere.”
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