Research stays 

Research into Rubens and his contemporaries is still vital. That's why the Rubenshuis supports guest researchers, including PhD students, postdoctoral researchers and senior art historians, as part of their ongoing projects. With free access to the entire research collection and the possibility to attend and organise symposia. 

Of course, guest researchers are not alone. They take part in fascinating collaborations with other researchers and staff members of our house. These lead to introductions to Belgian universities, museums, libraries, archives and art dealers. Guest researchers can present their work both internally and at interuniversity seminars in Leuven and Ghent.  

Submit an application to become a guest researcher in Dutch or English. Please indicate the following information on no more than one page:  

• Your current institution  
• List of promoters  
• Current or expected study funding  
• Presentation of your research topic and what sources you plan to consult in the Rubenshuis  
• Estimated period of stay (min. 2 months)  
• Estimated attendance at the Rubenshuis (daily, weekly, etc.)  

Apply here. 

American BAEF fellows (Belgian American Educational Foundation) have for many years found their way to the Rubenshuis as guest researchers. In the context of the fresh wind blowing through the museum in 2024, we are also breathing new life into the fellowship. The objective? To get a new generation of researchers fired up for valuable research. These fellows enjoy the same facilities as other guest researchers.  

  

Candidates apply online.  

<BAEF application>  

Guest researchers currently researching Flemish art and culture of the 16th and 17th centuries at the Rubenshuis:  

• Emily Hirsch – Brown University/BAEF Fellow. PhD project: Flemish Sculptors and Terracotta, c. 1600–1750  
• Hanne Schonkeren – VUB/FWO. PhD project: Ingenious Craftsmanship: A Performative and Art Historical Study of Gold and Silversmithing in Sixteenth- Century Antwerp  
• Max Wiringa – KU Leuven/FWO. PhD project: Fragments of Order. Constructing Renaissance Architecture in the Low Countries