As an outgrowth of these activities, the Center regularly conducts and publishes the results of research in conservation and art history. Conservation training at Harvard University was formalized in 1972 with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts. The ten-month program offers practical training that introduces sophisticated analytical and treatment techniques and raises philosophical issues concerning the conservation of works of art. Three or more internships are made available each year in paintings, works of art on paper, and objects and sculpture. Directed by staff conservators and conservation scientists, the program's flexible curriculum is designed to accommodate the varied experience, personal interests, and professional objectives of each intern.
Emphasis is given to practical training in the examination and treatment of works of art.
In addition, through the Center's affiliation with Harvard University, interns have access to an extraordinary array of resources, including distinguished art collections, advanced scientific equipment, and renowned libraries. Interns are encouraged to take advantage of the many curriculum courses, lectures, and seminars offered each year by the University. They also participate in a museum-wide intern seminar, together with interns from curatorial and administrative departments. Interns participate in the Museums' active exhibition and publication programs and may become involved in both technical and art historical research that is incorporated into exhibition catalogues and independent publications. Collaboration with curators and scholars provides opportunities to work on problems of condition, attribution, and authentication.