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Doctoral research opportunities at the European University Institute

Since its opening to researchers in 1976, the European University Institute has provided international, inter-disciplinary doctoral training with a special focus on Europe and European integration. While the scope of the Institute has since broadened, it has not lost sight of those founding principles, now shared with its partners in the CIVICA alliance.

In the framework of CIVICA, EUI is spearheading the development of a European integrated space for doctoral researchers in the social sciences and humanities. Early stage researchers, among others, will be able to benefit from a European hub for PhD mentoring, a topical platform for exchanges based on research interests, opportunities to attend PhD seminars at partner universities, and a rich offer of advanced training workshops across the alliance.

In designing these activities, the EUI draws on its strong experience with  doctoral programmes  in the social sciences. 

EUI’s entering cohorts for 2020/21 were larger than ever, and applications are now open for 2021/22.

Approximately 150 fully-funded scholarships are available for doctoral studies in the Departments of  Economics ,  History and Civilization ,  Law , and  Political and Social Sciences . 

Dr. Mathias Neukirchen, Director of the EUI’s Academic Service, explains why recent undergraduates and master’s students interested in research might consider applying to the Institute. "The EUI’s doctoral programme is highly-structured and provides the training and research support necessary for completing a doctoral dissertation. 85% of our doctoral researchers successfully defend their theses within the allotted time frame."

In addition, the skills EUI graduates obtain over the course of their studies prepare them well for a variety of careers. "While around 60% of our PhDs go on to employment in academia and research, the rest find placement in jobs that range from international organisations, the European institutions, the public and private sectors, and civil society," says Neukirchen.

Most doctoral scholarships are funded by the Institute’s contracting states from the European Union: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden, and the United Kingdom. Additional funding opportunities are offered by associate member states Norway and Switzerland, other funding authorities and the EUI itself. The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation offers funding to candidates from several non-EU countries. Candidates with other guaranteed external funding schemes may also consider applying.

Prospective applicants should read carefully the eligibility requirements of each funding authority, available on the doctoral programme webpages of each department. All application materials are due by midnight (CET) on 31 January 2021. 

Written by Jackie Gordon (EUI)

Photo: EUI library © EUI

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