The research centre, an initiative of Groeningemuseum (Groeninge Museum), was formed in co-operation with the non-profit agency Vlaamse Kunstcollectie vzw and with subsidies from the Flemish government. This was within the scope of the cultural heritage decree following the recognition of Groeningemuseum as a classified Flemish museum.

The research centre, together with the library, provides a platform for museum staff, researchers, specialists, and other interested parties. Researchers can reserve a workstation in the library for long-term research projects related to Musea Brugge collection items.