The Rijksmuseum operates a Fellowship Programme for outstanding candidates working on the art and history of the Low Countries whose principal concern is object-based research. The aim of the programme is to train a new generation of museum professionals: inquisitive object-based specialists who will further develop understanding of art and history for the future. The focus of research should relate to the Rijksmuseum’s collection, and may encompass any of its varied holdings, including Netherlandish paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, prints, drawings, photography and historical artefacts. The purpose of the programme is to enable applicants to base part of their research at the Rijksmuseum, to strengthen the bonds between the universities and the Rijksmuseum, and to encourage the understanding of Netherlandish art and history. The programme offers students and academic scholars access to the museum’s collections, library, conservation laboratories and curatorial expertise.

Eligibility

The Rijksmuseum Fellowship Programme provides opportunities for recent graduates (at the Master’s level), as well as doctoral and post-doctoral candidates. The programme is open to candidates of all nationalities and with varied specialisms. They may include art historians, curators, conservators, historians and scientists. Candidates should have proven research capabilities, academic credentials and excellent written and spoken knowledge of two languages (English and preferably Dutch or German). Fellowships will be awarded for a duration ranging from 6-24 months, starting in the academic year 2017-2018. Please review the Rijksmuseum website for detailed information on each individual Fellowship position.

Funding

Fellowship stipends are awarded to help support a Fellow’s study and research efforts during the tenure of their appointment. The stipend amount varies by funding source and Fellowship period. Visit the Rijksmuseum website for further information.

Application and procedure

Please review the eligibility, funding and application requirements by following the link to the Fellowship of your interest:

  • Andrew W. Mellon Fellowship for art historical research –
    Apply here
  • Johan Huizinga Fellowship for historical research –
    Apply here
  • Migelien Gerritzen Fellowship for conservation research – Apply here
  • Manfred & Hanna Heiting Fellowship for photo-historical research – Apply here

The closing date for all applications is 12 March 2017, at 6:00 p.m. (Amsterdam time/CET). No applications will be accepted after this deadline. All applications must be submitted online and in English. Applications or related materials delivered via email, postal mail, or in person will not be accepted.

Selection will be made by an international committee in April 2017. The committee consists of eminent scholars in the relevant fields of study from European universities and institutions, and members of the curatorial and conservation staff of the Rijksmuseum. Applicants will be notified by 1 May 2017. All Fellowships will start in September 2017.

Further information

For questions concerning the application procedure, contact Marije Spek, Coordinator of the Fellowship Programme (m.spek@rijksmuseum.nl), +31 (0)20-6747395.