About the Position
Ghent University is hiring a postdoctoral researcher in technical art history/painting conservation to join the prestigious ERC-funded project ARTDETECT (2024–2028), led by Prof. Anna Tummers. Based in the Department of Art, Music and Theatre Sciences, this full-time role involves cutting-edge research on detecting painting forgeries through crack pattern analysis, mockups, and advanced imaging and chemical methods. The role is ideal for researchers with a PhD in art history, conservation science, or related fields and offers the opportunity to publish, collaborate internationally, and contribute to innovative scientific meetings in an interdisciplinary team of seven. The contract starts as a one-year position, with the possibility of extension.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher
- Institution: Ghent University
- Department: Art, Music and Theatre Sciences (LW17)
- Research Field: Technical Art History, Conservation
- Location: Ghent, Belgium
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Contract of indefinite duration with clause
- Start Date (Anticipated): 15 September 2025
- Working Hours: 100% employment
- Salary Range: Salary scale PD1–PD4
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Technical Art History
- Painting Conservation
- Art Forgery Detection
- Conservation Science
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in technical art history, conservation science, or paintings restoration (within 6 years)
- Proven publication record in the field
- Experience in interdisciplinary museum/conservation-based research
Preferred Qualifications:
- Skills in mockup creation and artificial ageing
- Fluency in English (spoken and written); knowledge of Dutch, French, German, or Italian desirable
- Excellent planning, discretion, and collaborative abilities
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct research on artificial vs. natural crack patterns
- Develop and execute sub-project 3 within ARTDETECT
- Publish at least one peer-reviewed article per year
- Attend team meetings and contribute to workshops
- Engage with international research events
Application Process
How to Apply:
Apply online via Ghent University’s e-recruitment platform only. Late or email applications will not be considered.
Required Documents:
- CV + academic transcripts (PDF)
- Motivation letter (PDF)
- Copy of PhD diploma (with translation if required)
- Contact details of two referees
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Now
- Deadline: 14 August 2025, 23:59 (Brussels time)
- Interview Date: Week of 1 September 2025 (in-person or via teleconference)
Useful Links
- Institution Website: Ghent University, Belgium
- Official Notification Link: Post-Doctoral Researcher in Technical Art History/Painting Conservation Job Details | Ghent University
- Apply Now: Ghent University e-recruitment
