Bossema's PhD thesis, ‘Tailoring X-ray tomography techniques for cultural heritage research’ focuses on adapting advanced 3D imaging methods for use on fragile and historically significant art objects. Bossema completed her PhD in the Computational Imaging group at CWI, in collaboration with Leiden University, the Rijksmuseum, the British Museum, and the J. Paul Getty Museum.
In her research, Bossema developed algorithms that allow conventional 2D X-ray equipment to be used for full 3D CT scans, making high-resolution imaging more easily accessible to museums worldwide. She worked closely with conservators to explore the interiors of rare objects such as historical sculptures, wooden chests and purses. The results provide new insights into art-historical questions without damaging the objects themselves.
It is not the first time her research has been recognized: Bossema previously won the NWO Team Science Award together with a team for their project studying the book chest in which the famous writer and jurist Hugo de Groot escaped from prison in 1621, for which they developed a new technique to scan larger objects.
Outstanding PhD research
The KHMW Thesis Award for Interdisciplinary Research 2025 is granted by the Royal Holland Society of Sciences and Humanities (KHMW) and recognizes outstanding PhD research that crosses traditional academic boundaries. The jury said: “With her combined background in mathematics and science communication, Francien Bossema is uniquely positioned to build bridges between mathematics/computer science on the one hand, and art history/conservation on the other”.
Francien Bossema, who began her scientific career at CWI with a master’s internship, exemplifies the kind of talent that CWI fosters, combining mathematical insight, technical creativity, and a passion for impact-driven science and outreach.
