PhD Candidate in Conservation Science

As PhD candidate you will mainly focus on the material aspects of the woollens samples in the books. You will study these samples with a wide range of analytical techniques, such as multispectral imaging, liquid chromatography, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Raman and FTIR. In addition to material characterisation, the PhD candidate will also study historical publications with an emphasis on historical dye recipes, and background into early modern production of black woollens. A part of the research will focus on creating historical dye reconstructions, based on these historical sources. The research will be fundamental to establish the standardization of inspection practices and trace changes in quality standards throughout the 18th century. Moreover, it will contribute to defining the condition of the samples, furthering conclusions about their preservation, and their use asreferences for the study of other black woollen heritage.

Tasks and responsibilities:

• submission of a PhD thesis within the period of appointment;
• collaborate with the postdoctoral researcher to develop historically-informed reconstructions;
• carry out analytical research of the mock-ups generated from the historical reconstructions, and sampling and research of a selection of samples from the sample books;
• participating in meetings of the project research group and developing a shared database;
• publishing 3 to 4 peer reviewed articles;
• presenting intermediate research results at workshops and conferences;
• organising knowledge dissemination activities, including workshops and an expert meeting along with the postdoctoral researcher;
• assist with teaching master's level courses in the 2nd and 3rd year of the PhD (max. 0.2 FTE)
• participation in the Research School and Faculty of Humanities PhD training programmes.

We seek an ambitious PhD candidate who has a very strong interest in textiles, analytical chemistry and art history. You enjoy close collaboration with an interdisciplinary research team of analytical chemists, conservators and art historians. Candidates with either a cross-disciplinary / interdisciplinary background, or have a strong interest in developing their skills are especially encouraged to apply.

Candidates need to have the following qualifications:
• a completed Master's degree in Conservation Science, Analytical Chemistry, Technical Art History, (Textile) Conservation, or an equivalent degree.
• excellent research skills demonstrated by an outstanding Master's thesis and a demonstrable capacity to develop a track record of publishing in high-ranking journals and/or with leading presses;
• a strong cooperative attitude and willingness to engage in collaborative research;
• enthusiasm for communicating academic research to non-academic audiences;
• good command of English and the willing to learn Dutch
• Proven experience (or at least minimal knowledge with interpreting data) with at least two of the following analytical techniques: multispectral imaging, liquid chromatography, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, FTIR, transmitted light microscopy, or colour spectroscopy.

This interdisciplinary position could be fulfilled by either a candidate with adegree in Conservation Science or Chemistry with a strong affinity with textiles, or a degree in Textile Conservation or Technical Art History with a strong affinity with analytical chemistry. Experience with preparation of (historical) reconstructions, or technical analysis of art materials is considered a plus.
Please note that if you already hold a doctorate/PhD or are working towards obtaining a similar degree elsewhere, you will not be admitted to a doctoral programme at the UvA.