The research stays named after the distinguished art historian Martin Warnke (1937-2019), a scholar of the work of authors as present in the Prado collections as Rubens, Velázquez and Goya, have been instituted by the Museo Nacional del Prado in collaboration with the Goethe-Institut Madrid to facilitate short study stays for academics and researchers with habitual residence in a country of the European Union.

The program provides for a four-week consecutive residency for one researcher.

The residency period is set from September 1 - September 30, 2026. Exceptionally, a different timeframe within the autumn quarter of 2026 may be considered; this must be specified in the application for the Selection Committee’s consideration.
During the residency month, the selected researcher may stay free of charge in an apartment provided by the Goethe-Institut in Madrid, where they will also have access to a classroom should they require additional workspace.

The selected researcher will be provided with:
- a workspace at the Prado Museum Study Center
- special access facilities with extended hours for the Library, Archive, and Documentation department
- access to databases and specific management and documentation systems regarding the Prado Museum collection (as expressly authorized for their research)
- direct contact with the Museum’s academic community and access to Campus Prado.

Applications:
Applications must be submitted via the online form available on this website during the designated application period. To complete the form, the following documents must be attached:

- a copy of a valid ID (DNI or passport)
- a PhD degree or proof of enrollment in a doctoral program
- an abridged CV
- a research project summary (maximum 400 words)

Note: Only applications that include all required documentation will be considered. Applicants will be notified of the decision during the month of May.

Deadlines:
The application period will be open from February 17 - April 15, 2026.

Eligibility:
Academic Status: Applications are open to researchers currently working on a doctoral thesis or those who already hold a PhD.

Field of Study:
Research projects in Art History or related disciplines will be considered, provided they relate to the Prado Museum’s collections or address topics linked to them in some capacity.

Age:
There is no age limit.

Previous Participants:
Researchers who have previously completed this residency are eligible to reapply.

Residency Requirement:
Applicants must have their primary residence in a European Union country.

Other Requirements:
Applications may be submitted in Spanish, English, or German.

Insurance:
The selected researcher must hold health, accident, and civil liability insurance covering the entire duration of their stay.