Keune's research focuses on studying historic paints, particularly their chemical composition and their eventual degradation processes, and she is recognized in her field as one of the leading researchers in the Netherlands whose work lies at the intersection of physical sciences and art history. As a result of her efforts in the field, the Board of NICAS appointed her as the new Chair of the institute.

Keune shared her excitement about the appointment: "NICAS forms a vibrant network where diverse cultural heritage expertise converges around the materiality of objects. I look forward to expanding this community to become more accessible to museums and institutions across the Netherlands, and to grow further into an inspiring, connecting, and supportive space for the next generation of heritage researchers."

Ongoing research and work

Prof. Keune has served as the Rijksmuseum's Head of Science since 2019, and has been a Professor by Special Appointment at the University of Amsterdam since 2021. She has contributed to major projects within the Rijksmuseum, such as the restoration of Rembrandt's The Night Watch, and also coordinates the European GoGreen project, aiming to find more sustainable and eco-friendly art conservation materials and methods.

See also

• NICAS website
• Katrien Keune named professor by special appointment of Molecular Spectroscopy
• GoGreen: Developing sustainable strategies for conservation of cultural heritage