Postdoctoral in Art History at Ghent University HigherJobz

About the Position

Ghent University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Technical Art History/Painting Conservation to join the ERC-funded project A New Connoisseurship: Smart ways to detect forgeries (ARTDETECT 2024–2028), under the supervision of Professor Anna Tummers. This one-year, full-time post focuses on Sub-project 3, which investigates crack patterns in paintings—both naturally occurring and artificially created. Using mockups, high-resolution imaging, microscopy, and chemical analysis, the researcher will explore how these patterns can help identify forged artworks. The project is deeply interdisciplinary, bringing together art historians, conservators, and scientists to rethink how authenticity is assessed. With a particular emphasis on European and American paintings, the role supports the department’s broader goals of advancing material-based art historical research. The position offers rich opportunities for scholarly collaboration, international publication, and participation in a vibrant research team working at the crossroads of heritage science and visual analysis.

Position/Job Details

Position: Postdoctoral Researcher
Institution: Ghent University
Department: Art, Music and Theatre Sciences (LW17)
Research Field: Technical Art History / Painting Conservation
Location: Ghent, Belgium
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral (contract of indefinite duration with clause)
Start Date (Anticipated): September 2025
Working Hours: 38 hours per week
Salary Range: Scale PD1–PD4 (based on doctoral degree)
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Technical art history
Painting conservation
Conservation science
Material analysis of artworks
Detection of art forgeries

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in technical art history, painting conservation/restoration, or conservation science
Doctorate obtained within the past 6 years
Strong publication record relevant to career stage
Proven experience working with European and/or American paintings
Skilled in reconstructions/mockups and artificial ageing techniques
Excellent command of English for academic purposes

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of Dutch, French, Italian, and/or German
Familiarity with interdisciplinary research environments
Experience using microscopes, high-res photography, and chemical analysis
Strong planning, discretion, and communication skills
Dutch language proficiency is an advantage (not mandatory)

Key Responsibilities

Conduct original research in Sub-project 3 of the ARTDETECT project
Develop a detailed research plan in alignment with project goals
Collect and analyse visual and material data, including mockups and reconstructions
Publish at least one peer-reviewed article annually
Collaborate closely with team members and attend regular meetings in Ghent
Participate in and help organise scientific conferences and workshops
Present findings at international events (when appropriate)

Application Process

How to Apply:

Applications must be submitted online via Ghent University’s e-recruitment portal. Applications sent by email or after the deadline will not be accepted.

Required Documents:

CV and transcript of academic results (PDF)
Motivation letter (PDF)
PhD diploma (with certified translation if not in Dutch, French, German, or English)
Contact details of two referees (names, positions, email addresses only)