This Fellowship offers early career scholars the opportunity to conduct historical research into objects in the Rijksmuseum collection. Candidates are invited to submit a research proposal that draws on these objects as subject material and as sources of historical information. The Johan Huizinga Fellowship is primarily intended for candidates whose focus is on the historical role and symbolic meaning of objects, on material culture or the societal context in which these artifacts were used. Therefore, please note that this fellowship does not welcome proposals with an exclusive art-historical focus (e.g. emphasizing artistic style, oeuvres or art techniques).
The Fellowship Program seeks to strengthen connections between museum and universities and encourage the exchange of knowledge. Candidates are offered the opportunity to carry out their own research project at the Rijksmuseum, with access to the museum’s staff, collection, library, and laboratories.
Fellowships are one year in duration and begin in September. Housing in Amsterdam is provided at the Haga Huis, within walking distance of the Rijksmuseum.
Eligibility
The fellowship is open to MA graduates, as well as PhD students and post-doctoral candidates. Fellowships are open to candidates of all nationalities and with varied specialisms. They may include researchers specialising in the fields of general history, cultural historical studies or art history. Candidates should have proven research capabilities, academic credentials and excellent command of the English language – both written and spoken. Proficiency in the Dutch language is strongly recommended in regard to consulting primary and secondary research sources.
Applications
The fellowship is for a period of nine months commencing in September, the start of the academic year. The closing date for applications is typically in January.