RFAs: Mads Øvlisen PhD Scholarships within Art History and Practice-Based Artistic Research (Denmark)

The Novo Nordisk Foundation invites applications for the Mads Øvlisen PhD Scholarships, designed to support research in art history and practice-based artistic research. This opportunity is open to ambitious students aiming to contribute significantly to these fields in Denmark. Applications open on 29 October 2026 and close on 14 January 2027 at 2:00 PM CET. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Novo Nordisk Foundation

- Funding Type: PhD Scholarships

- Funding Amount: Up to DKK 3.08 million per scholarship

- Eligible Applicants: Master’s degree holders or equivalent

- Eligible Locations: Primarily Denmark

- Application Deadline: 14 January 2027, 2:00 PM CET

- Project Duration: Up to three years

About the Opportunity

The Mads Øvlisen PhD Scholarships aim to foster research careers in art history and practice-based artistic research. The scholarships are intended for projects that will advance these fields in Denmark. The foundation supports research proposals that demonstrate relevance to the visual arts and the research environment at the Danish host institution. Funding and Benefits Each scholarship offers up to DKK 3.08 million for a three-year project. The funds cover: - Salary and university tuition fees - Operating and equipment expenses (for practice-based scholarships) - Publication and conference costs - Relocation expenses for international applicants - Travel and collaborative activity costs - Project supplement or bench fee and administrative support (specific to certain institutions) Who Is Eligible? - Applicants must hold a master’s degree or equivalent. - Demonstrated artistic or curatorial practice is required for practice-based scholarships. - Enrollment at a doctoral degree awarding institution in Denmark is mandatory. - The project must primarily be conducted in Denmark. - A hosting letter and preliminary enrollment agreement from the host institution are required. Eligible Activities or Priority Areas - Art history research (preferably one scholarship before 1900 and one after 1900) - Practice-based art research, including a written dissertation and an artistic or curatorial element - An additional scholarship for a high-quality proposal in any of the specified categories Why This Opportunity Matters These scholarships provide a substantial opportunity for researchers to advance the fields of art history and practice-based artistic research in Denmark. By supporting innovative projects, the Novo Nordisk Foundation aims to enrich the Danish cultural and academic landscape. How to Apply - Review the “Guidelines for applicants” thoroughly. - Prepare your application via the Foundation’s application system, available from 29 October 2026. - Ensure the correct call is selected for your research area. - Submit the application by 14 January 2027, 2:00 PM CET, in Danish or English. Application Tips or Common Mistakes - Contact your host institution early to confirm any internal deadlines. - Ensure more than 50% of the research project is conducted in Denmark if you’re residing outside the country. - Only one application per call and per calendar year for a specific project is allowed. Frequently Asked Questions Who can apply for the scholarships? Applicants with a master’s degree or equivalent and relevant research proposals in art history or practice-based artistic research can apply. What is the funding amount per scholarship? Each scholarship provides up to DKK 3.08 million for a three-year project. Where must the research be conducted? The research should primarily take place in Denmark. Can international applicants apply? Yes, applicants from all countries are eligible, but the project must be conducted mostly in Denmark. What documents are required for the application? A hosting letter and a preliminary enrollment agreement from the host institution must be included. Next Steps Eligible candidates are encouraged to review the official guidelines and prepare their application materials promptly. For further details, please refer to the official opportunity page.