Research Fellow, Center for Netherlandish Art

Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115

About the role

The Center for Netherlandish Art (CNA) seeks applicants for the CNA Fellowship Program for object-based research related to Netherlandish art at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. These Fellowships are full-time appointments for a period of 6, 9, or 12 months, beginning in fall of 2027. The CNA is committed to fostering a broad and diverse international applicant pool and encourages individuals of all backgrounds to apply. Fellowship candidates who require visa sponsorship are welcome and will be considered on an equal basis. The museum assists successful candidates with the visa application process, depending on the category of visa.

The CNA Fellowship Program provides the opportunity to pursue an independent research project, determined by the fellow, related to the MFA’s expansive collections of Netherlandish art, including paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, works on paper, early books, and more. Research topics may focus on Dutch and/or Flemish art and culture of the long 17th century (circa 1560-1800), including contacts and exchanges between the Netherlands and other global regions. Interdisciplinary approaches are encouraged and supported.

CNA Fellowships are open to a range of educational levels from MA graduates to recent postdoctoral scholars. Proposed projects might address, for example, research for submission of a PhD proposal, PhD dissertation work, and/or preparation of a publication.

Requirements

• Must have completed a master’s degree, be currently pursuing a doctoral degree, or have completed a doctoral degree within the last five years.
• Areas of specialization may include but are not limited to history of art, architecture, decorative arts and design, technical art history, conservation science, cultural studies, history of science, philosophy, sociology, visual studies, literary studies, religious studies, transatlantic studies, gender and sexuality studies, and/or related fields.
• Commitment to public scholarship, and eagerness to participate in training opportunities at the Museum to share expertise with broad audiences.
• Proven research capabilities, academic credentials, and writing skills.
• Strong command of English and comfort working in an English-language environment. Dutch language skills are a plus, but not mandatory.

Pay

12-Month Fellowship Salary: $53,616 (pre-doctoral fellows); $58,935 (postdoctoral fellows).

Schedule

• Term: 6 months, 9 months, or 12 months (starts Fall 2027).
• Full-time.

Application deadline: December 1, 2026.

About the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

The MFA is open to new ideas that broaden perspectives, to every visitor from the curious to the lifelong learner, and to new possibilities discovered through art. Showcasing ancient artistry and modern masterpieces, local legends and global visionaries, the museum’s renowned collection of nearly 500,000 works tells the story of the human experience—a story that holds unique meaning for everyone. The MFA welcomes diverse perspectives, both within the artwork and among its visitors.