Research Fellow

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Institution: Center for Netherlandish Art, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Contract: Full-Time Fellowship, 6, 9 or 12 months
Salary: $53,616 (pre-doctoral) / $58,935 (postdoctoral) for 12 months
Deadline: 1 December 2026

The Center for Netherlandish Art is seeking Research Fellows for object-based research related to Netherlandish art. Fellows will pursue an independent research project connected to the Museum’s collections of Dutch and Flemish art and will receive mentorship, access to collections and research facilities, and opportunities for professional development and public scholarship.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct an independent research project related to the Museum’s collections of Netherlandish art.
Present research progress and participate in workshops, excursions and hands-on training opportunities.
Contribute to Center and Museum events and programmes.
Participate in the annual CNA Colloquium and share research with public audiences.
Produce a final written report at the conclusion of the Fellowship.
Attend relevant department and staff meetings and engage with stakeholders as requested.
Contribute content to the Museum’s online platforms, including social media and CNA Stories.

Requirements

Completed a Master’s degree, currently pursuing a doctoral degree, or completed a doctoral degree within the last five years.
Specialisation in art history, architecture, decorative arts and design, technical art history, conservation science, cultural studies or a related field.
Proven research capabilities, academic credentials and strong writing skills.
Commitment to public scholarship and willingness to share expertise with broad audiences.
Strong command of English and comfort working in an English-language environment.
Dutch language skills are an advantage but are not required.
Proposed research should relate in some way to Dutch and/or Flemish art and culture of the long 17th century, approximately 1560–1800.

Benefits

Mentorship from a Museum-based researcher.
Access to extensive collections, curatorial expertise, the Conservation Center, CNA Library and research facilities.
Access to other research libraries and collections in the Boston/Cambridge area.
Participation in an international network of academic and museum partners.
Professional development through workshops, training, excursions and public programmes.
Relocation and visa support funds.
Travel stipend and generous benefits package.
Opportunity to participate in the annual public CNA Colloquium.

Application

Applications must include a cover letter of up to 400 words, a research proposal of up to 1,000 words including research questions and a general timeline, a full CV, and a writing sample such as an essay, published paper, catalogue entry or dissertation chapter.

Applicants should indicate their preference for a 6-, 9- or 12-month appointment. Two professional references must send letters of recommendation directly to referenceletters@mfa.org with “CNA Fellowship Program” in the subject line.

Fellowships are full-time appointments beginning in fall 2027. Fellows are expected to work onsite at the Center most weekdays during core business hours. Up to two Fellows will be hosted during the 2027–28 academic year.