The focus of this internship is to aid in a broader research project that aims at revealing and assessing ‘traces of use’ present in/on historical garments.

Some of the traces of use that will be the focus of the research during this internship are e.g. blood, saliva, sweat, urine, paint materials, inks and wear & tear patterns. These will be applied on artificially aged mock-ups made out of silk, cotton and linen and then studied under different types of electromagnetic radiations, commonly used in forensic science and heritage studies.

During the internship you will learn about creating mock-up samples with analytical purposes. You will also get practical experience with hyper spectral imaging, a novel tool in the field of forensic science, and compare the obtained results with techniques you're used to work with in your field, such as UV and IR photography or forensic crime-light camera.

Practical aspects
We offer a 6 month internship, ideally starting in January/February 2025. The internship will mainly take place within the KIK-IRPA laboratories in Brussels. However, the institute’s textile conservation studio will be involved and act as a guiding agent. You will work side by side in an interdisciplinary environment, interacting with heritage scientists and art conservators-restorers.

An internship agreement (including all insurances) needs to be handled by your university or college.
Applications should include a short resume as well as a motivation letter where you let us know why this internship is of particular interest to you.

Do not hesitate to express your interest, apply and/or pose any questions by sending an email to: Griet Kockelkoren and Francisco Mederos.

Date of publication: November 19, 2024.