Katrien Keune named professor by special appointment of Molecular Spectroscopy

Katrien Keune. Copyright: UvA / Kirsten van Santen - Dr Katrien Keune has been named professor by special appointment of Molecular Spectroscopy at the Faculty of Science of the University of Amsterdam (UvA). Keune is Head of Science at the Rijksmuseum and is responsible, among others, for the scientific research during 'Operation Night Watch'. As a professor, Keune will focus primarily on the application of molecular spectroscopy for the study of historic paints and their degradation. The chair was established on behalf of the foundation 'John van Geuns Fonds'. Katrien Keune is one of the Netherlands' leading researchers at the intersection of art history and the natural sciences. Ever since her PhD research she has been using her chemical expertise to preserve cultural heritage and to enrich and improve art historical interpretation.