MSCA Europe PhD Scholarships 2025 (Fully Funded)
Funded by the European Commission’s Horizon Europe Programme, the MSCA Doctoral Networks aim to develop highly skilled, globally connected researchers who can tackle the world’s most pressing challenges through cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cross-sector experience.
Types of Doctoral Networks
- Standard Doctoral Networks – Traditional PhD programmes focused on research excellence.
- Industrial Doctorates – Joint supervision between academia and industry to enhance innovation and practical application.
- Joint Doctorates – Integrated programmes awarding joint or multiple doctoral degrees from partner universities.
What MSCA Doctoral Networks Offer
Each Doctoral Network is implemented by a consortium of universities, research centers, businesses, and non-academic organizations from across Europe and beyond.
Participants benefit from:
Advanced research training in top European institutions
Industry exposure and international collaboration
Interdisciplinary supervision and mentoring
Secondments and mobility across partner countries
Funding and Benefits
The MSCA Doctoral Networks are fully funded by the European Union and provide:
- Living allowance (competitive monthly salary)
- Mobility allowance for relocation and travel
- Family, long-term leave, and special needs allowances (if applicable)
- Research, training, and networking costs
- Management and indirect costs for host institutions
Duration:
- PhD contracts last 3 to 36 months (up to 48 months for Joint Doctorates).
- Projects can run for up to 4 years (5 years for Joint Doctorates).
Eligibility Criteria for PhD Candidates
- Must not already hold a doctoral degree.
- Must comply with the mobility rule:
- You cannot have lived or worked in the recruiting country for more than 12 months in the past 36 months.
- Must be enrolled in a doctoral programme during the fellowship period.
Eligibility for Host Organizations
Consortia must include:
- At least three independent organizations from three different EU Member States or Horizon Europe Associated Countries, with one based in the EU.
- Additional partners worldwide may also participate.
Why Choose the MSCA Doctoral Networks?
- Prestigious EU-funded fellowship recognized globally.
- Gain international and intersectoral research experience.
- Enhance employability through mobility, collaboration, and innovation.
- Join a network of world-class scientists and research organizations shaping Europe’s future.
Application Procedure
For PhD Candidates:
Aspiring researchers can:
- Apply directly to host institutions offering positions under funded Doctoral Networks.
- Review specific eligibility, visa, and salary details for each posting.