Organizer Information
Rijksmuseum, located in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is the national museum of Dutch art and history. It houses masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, alongside a diverse collection of Asian art, photography, and applied arts. The museum is committed to promoting art and cultural heritage through exhibitions, research, education, and public programs. The Conrad Whelan Fellowship is part of the museum’s initiatives to support emerging scholars and professionals in the cultural heritage and museum fields.
Title & Description
Conrad Whelan 42 Fellowship 2026
This fellowship provides an early-career professional with the opportunity to contribute to research, curatorial projects, and other museum-related initiatives at the Rijksmuseum. Fellows gain practical experience in collections, exhibitions, or research while developing their skills under the mentorship of senior museum staff. The program combines hands-on professional development with engagement in ongoing museum projects, providing insight into museum operations, cultural heritage management, and public programming.
Categories
- Art History
- Cultural History
- Museum Studies / Research
- Curatorial Practice
- Interdisciplinary / Object-based Research
Eligibility
- Open to PhD students (whose proposal is part of their dissertation) and postdoctoral researchers (with a completed PhD by the application date)
- International applicants of all nationalities
- Researchers in art history, cultural history, or related disciplines
- Proven research capabilities, strong academic credentials, and excellent English proficiency
- Knowledge of a second language (ideally Dutch or German) is preferred but not required
Program Benefits & Awards
- Stipend: €39,000 for PhD Fellows or €45,000 for postdoctoral Fellows (subject to taxes) for a 12-month period
- Research travel support: Up to €5,000 annually for study in European collections and archives
- Visa fees: Covered for the Fellow (not dependents)
- Access to Rijksmuseum resources: collections, archives, research library, and documentation
- Joint workspace at the museum and mentorship from curatorial/scientific staff
- Engagement in workshops, excursions, and public programs
- Opportunity to produce a publication or project output under guidance
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Completed online application form via the Rijksmuseum portal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project proposal clearly outlining research objectives
- Motivation/cover letter
- Proof of academic qualifications
- Optional references or recommendation letters
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 4 January 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: 1 September 2026
- Duration: Typically 6–12 months (specified in fellowship details)
Location
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Additional Details
- The fellowship is designed to provide practical experience in museum operations and curatorial research
- Fellows may participate in ongoing exhibitions, collection management, and public outreach programs
- Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Dutch is beneficial but not mandatory
- The position is suitable for individuals aiming for a professional career in museums, art history research, or cultural heritage management
Website Link: https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/careers
