KATRIEN KEUNE

Head of Science, Rijksmuseum Amsterdam & Member Scientific and Ethical Advisory Committee E-RIHS.EU

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Katrien Keune

Katrien Keune is Head of Science at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and a distinguished professor of Molecular Spectroscopy at the University of Amsterdam (UvA). Since 2025, she has been the chair of the Dutch network for research into movable heritage, the Netherlands Institute for Conservation+Art+Science+ (NICAS). With her team, she conducts research on a wide range of art objects and works closely with restorers, conservators, (technical) art historians, data specialists, communication and education professionals. The research is characterized by a strong interdisciplinary approach, using scientific research to enhance the understanding and preservation of works of art.

Her expertise lies in the study of aging and degradation of pigments and oil paintings at the micro- and molecular level, particularly with regard to interactions of pigment-binding media. From 2016 to 2018 she led the scientific research supporting the treatment of Rembrandt's portraits by Marten Soolmans and Oopjen Coppit. In Operation Night Watch Katrien is responsible for scientific research and paint sample analyses.

Operation Night Watch is the largest study ever into the Night watch, 1642, Rembrandt van Rijn. This uses the latest and most advanced technology to determine how the masterpiece can best be preserved for future generations.