J.J. Hermans

Dr. J.J. Hermans is an Assistant Professor of Conservation Science and Chemistry at the University of Amsterdam and the Rijksmuseum. His research bridges natural sciences and art conservation, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of oil paint degradation. Key affiliations include the Faculty of Science at UvA and collaborations with cultural heritage institutions.

Research interests center on metal soap crystallization, solvent effects in paint layers, and the application of advanced spectroscopic techniques (e.g., ATR-FTIR, 2D-IR) to study paint chemistry. Notable work includes elucidating water’s role in zinc soap crystallization and quantifying solvent diffusion in oil films.

He is a nominee for New Scientist’s Most Promising Dutch/Flemish Researcher award and has delivered public lectures on oil paint science (e.g., Koninklijke Maatschappij voor Natuurkunde o.d.z. Diligentia). Collaborations span academic and museum institutions to advance conservation science.

His work integrates fundamental chemistry with practical applications, such as preserving artworks and informing conservation practices. Active in science communication, he uses art to teach chemistry principles through lectures and media appearances.