Suitably qualified scholars or professionals are invited to apply for the Getty Conservation Guest Scholars Program 2026 for a chance to pursue research on topics that bring new knowledge and fresh perspectives to the field of conservation.
Through the Getty Conservation Guest Scholars Program 2026, established scholars or professionals who have attained distinction in the cultural heritage conservation field are provided with opportunities to reside at the Conservation Institute for a three-month residency, in which they pursue their own projects free from work-related obligations, make use of research collections at the Getty Center and Getty Villa, and participate with other Getty scholars, fellows, and interns in the intellectual life of Getty.
SEE MORE: Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 for South Africans
Eligibility
- Applications are welcome from researchers and practitioners of all nationalities working in cultural heritage conservation or preservation, including objects, collections, architecture, and sites.
- Applicants should have at least seven years of professional experience and should have an established record of publications and other contributions to the field.
- Individuals from groups underrepresented across the field of cultural heritage conservation are encouraged to apply.
- Proposals for postdoctoral research or research that contributes to a PhD or other academic degree will not be considered. Recent PhDs in chemistry and other physical or material sciences should apply to the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Conservation Science.
- The Conservation Institute will consider proposals that require use of its science laboratories; however, use is dependent upon availability of lab facilities and staff time and cannot be guaranteed. If selected, Scholars should be prepared to conduct research independent of Science department staff.
- Previous Conservation Guest Scholar Grant recipients are eligible to reapply after a waiting period of six years.
- Current Getty staff and members of their immediate family are not eligible for Conservation Guest Scholar Grants.
Benefits
Conservation Guest Scholars are in residence for three months from September–December, January–March, or April–June: $21,500
The grant also includes a workstation at the Conservation Institute, an apartment in the Getty scholar housing complex, research assistance, a travel stipend, and an available healthcare option.
Project Proposal
The project proposal should not exceed five pages, typed and double-spaced and must include a description of the applicant’s proposed plan of study.
The proposal should include the following distinct sections:
- Project description
- Methodology (please specify which of the project’s components would be pursued while in residence at the Getty)
- Expected outcome
- Project’s contribution to the advancement of practice in the conservation field
- Applicant’s qualifications to execute project
- Benefits to project from resources at the Getty
Method of Application
Applications for the Getty Conservation Guest Scholars Program 2026 are submitted through the Getty Foundation Grant Portal. Users can create or update their account and password, log in, and more.
For the best user experience, we strongly recommend use of the Google Chrome browser. You may also use Firefox or Safari. The Internet Explorer (IE) browser is not compatible with the application portal.
You may return to your work at any time by visiting the portal at the link above and logging into your account.
Application Deadline: October 1, 2026.
For More Information: Visit the Scholarship Website.
