The Center for Netherlandish Art (CNA) Fellowship Program supports and nurtures future generations of scholars and specialists in Netherlandish Art globally, with a focus on object-based research and learning in connection to public-facing scholarship. Through mentorship and access to the MFA’s rich collections, resources, and research facilities, fellows further their professional development and are part of an active learning community in Boston. Through the Fellowship Program, the CNA seeks to build a global cohort of fellows. By doing so, the Center aims to foster meaningful and lasting connections to enhance the field of Netherlandish Art as a whole.

During the program’s inaugural academic year, which begins in September 2022, the CNA will host up to three fellows. Two fellowships, lasting nine to twelve months, are available for candidates focusing on Netherlandish Art from the 17th century. Lasting for six months, the Flanders State of the Art Fellowship supports a fellow focused more specifically on Flemish art and culture from the period, supported by the Government of Flanders.

Fellowships at the CNA provide opportunities for talented individuals at different stages of their careers—from outstanding predoctoral candidates to emerging scholars at the postdoctoral level—to conduct independent research connected to the MFA’s collection of Netherlandish art. This may include preparation for submission of a PhD proposal, dissertation research and writing, and preparing a publication, among other research activities. As a multidisciplinary initiative, the Fellowship Program is open to individuals in a variety of professional and academic fields to encourage creative thinking and new scholarship. Fellows are drawn from a highly competitive international application pool and receive a workspace in the CNA Library. Compensation includes a salary and travel allowance as well as a generous benefits package.

Fellows share their research among themselves and with MFA staff, spark dialogue, and exchange ideas and opinions. They are fully incorporated into the work of the MFA and may consult on projects related to their research. Core to the CNA’s mission is the broad sharing of research with the public in order to promote the appreciation of Netherlandish art. As such, fellows present their research through the MFA’s public programs and online platforms to benefit a range of audiences.

The CNA’s active network of academic partners—both regional and international—play a critical role in the Fellowship Program. They are involved in candidate selection and support fellows with training and supervision. Joint initiatives undertaken with these partners provide opportunities for the dissemination and use of knowledge generated during the fellowship.

APPLICATION
To apply, please visit https://www.mfa.org/collections/center-for-netherlandish-art/fellowships

Please submit the following documents:
- A cover letter, outlining the primary focus of your research, the connection of your project to the MFA, and your personal interest in the fellowship position
- A research proposal (1,000 words maximum) including a timeline and suggested final product at the culmination of the project, further specifying your areas of expertise and connection the MFA’s collections of Netherlandish art. Please indicate your preference for a 6-, 9- or 12-month appointment.
- Full CV including education, professional experience, honors, awards and publications
- A writing sample (examples include recent essay, published paper, catalogue entry or a dissertation chapter)

Additionally, we ask for two letters of recommendation, to be sent directly by the references to referencelettersmfa.org, with ‘CNA Fellowship Program’ included in the email’s subject line.

Applications are greatly encouraged from all identities and nationalities, and citizens from the US, the Netherlands and Belgium, as well as those working and studying at US, Dutch, or Belgian institutions are highly encouraged to apply.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until January 30th, 2022. However, candidates are encouraged to apply at their earliest convenience.

Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee made up of CNA and MFA experts as well as an international panel of experts. Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted.

The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a culturally diverse and inclusive work environment and strongly encourage and welcome an application pool that reflects our commitment.