Volunteer ARTIS-Micropia

Since 1838, ARTIS has been a green oasis and meeting place in the heart of Amsterdam, where people and nature come together. The historic ARTIS-Park includes the zoo, botanical garden, and Planetarium. Additionally, ARTIS-Micropia inspires visitors with the invisible world of microbes, while the ARTIS-Groote Museum reveals the deeper connection between humans and nature. As a foundation and officially recognized charity, ARTIS is committed to strengthening our bond with nature, with the mission of creating a livable future for everyone, together.

Are you ready to dive into a hidden world? ARTIS-Micropia, the world’s first (and still the only!) museum dedicated to microbes, is looking for enthusiastic museum volunteers. Since opening its doors in 2014, Micropia has been unveiling the invisible, making the fascinating world of microbes accessible to everyone. Here, you’ll discover the tiniest organisms that have the biggest impact—shaping our lives and holding the key to our future.

As a volunteer at ARTIS, you’ll become part of our dynamic Volunteers & Educators department, within the Public & Programming cluster. Together, we strive to create unforgettable experiences for every visitor across all ARTIS locations.

What will you do?

As a museum volunteer, you will welcome visitors and guide them through the story of the smallest and most successful organisms. You will contribute to our mission of introducing and engaging the general public with microbiology, with a focus on the importance and potential of microbes for humans and nature. 

Additionally, you will help ensure an optimal visitor experience. You will assist visitors with the use of microscopes and inform them about "Laborant Vertelt" (Lab Technician Explains) and/or other activities in the museum. 

Who are you?

• You are interested in the world of microbes and enjoy connecting with people and sharing your knowledge with them.

• You have an open attitude and feel comfortable approaching and engaging with visitors.

• You are at least 18 years old.

• Ideally, you live in Amsterdam or nearby municipalities.

• You are physically fit; a shift lasts 3 hours, and standing for this duration is not a problem for you.

• You are digital proficient.

• You have a good command of the English language and a basic understanding of Dutch (at least level A2, preferably B1).

ARTIS believes in the power of inclusivity and diversity, just as in nature, aiming to reflect society in all its facets—be it age, gender, sexual orientation, background, belief, or physical and cognitive abilities. Together, we strive for a livable world for everyone, now and in the future.

What does ARTIS offer?

• An online basic course about ARTIS-Micropia;

• Regular knowledge sessions to keep you up to date with the latest information about ARTIS and Micropia.

• Reimbursement of travel expenses (up to a maximum distance of 50 km). 

• Discounts on products in the ARTIS shop, catering outlets, and events/lectures; 

• A few tickets for your family or friends to enjoy ARTIS. 

Good to know

• Micropia is open 365 days a year, with volunteer shifts primarily scheduled during the day. During special events, such as Museum Night, shifts may take place at different times.

• Each shift lasts 3 hours. You are expected to be available for at least 24 shifts per year, which averages a minimum of 2 shifts per month. Additionally, we ask for a commitment of at least one year.

• A Certificate of Good Conduct is required as part of the application process.

• ARTIS is a foundation and an officially recognized charity.

After being accepted

If we decide to move forward together, we will ask you to independently complete the online basic course about ARTIS-Micropia. After completing this course, you will participate in two familiarisation shifts at Micropia. The dates for these shifts will be scheduled in consultation.