BEST PhD Programme: 19 Fully-Funded Doctoral Positions in Interdisciplinary Research
Join an EU-funded doctoral network addressing health, global change, and sustainable transitions through interdisciplinary research.
Best for:Best for master’s graduates with interdisciplinary interests in societal challenges, seeking fully funded PhD opportunities with international collaboration and mobility.
Overview
The BEST (Between Earth and Sky in Toulouse) doctoral programme offers 19 fully-funded PhD positions within the Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND framework. Hosted by Université de Toulouse, this interdisciplinary initiative trains researchers to tackle major societal challenges across three thematic pillars: health and well-being, global change, and sustainable transitions (with a focus on aeronautics and space). PhD students will engage in international co-supervision and mandatory mobility placements at partner laboratories, ensuring broad exposure and collaborative research experiences. The programme is designed for master’s graduates seeking to contribute to cutting-edge, cross-sectoral solutions through rigorous academic training and real-world application.
What you'll do
- Conduct original research aligned with one of the three thematic pillars: Health & Well-being, Global Change, or Sustainable Transitions (with aeronautics/space focus).
- Develop and execute a PhD research project under the guidance of international co-supervisors from partner laboratories.
- Participate in mandatory mobility placements at collaborating institutions to broaden research exposure and collaboration networks.
- Present research findings at conferences, workshops, and internal seminars within the BEST network.
- Engage in interdisciplinary training programmes designed to enhance research skills and societal impact.
- Collaborate with industry, academic, and policy stakeholders to address real-world societal challenges.
- Contribute to the dissemination of research outcomes through publications, reports, and public engagement activities.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree or equivalent in any relevant field (e.g., natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, or interdisciplinary studies).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and collaboration (no formal test score required but implied).
Instruction: English
- Proven academic excellence and research potential demonstrated through master’s studies.
- Strong motivation to engage in interdisciplinary research addressing societal challenges.
- Ability to work collaboratively in international and cross-sectoral teams.
- Basic proficiency in scientific writing and communication in English.
- Open to applicants from any nationality.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior experience caps; open to recent master’s graduates and those with relevant professional experience.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-23 (Europe/Paris)
Applicants must submit their application through the official BEST programme portal. Required documents include a CV, a motivation letter, a research proposal, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency if applicable. Additional materials may be requested depending on the thematic focus of the chosen research project.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Research proposal (aligned with one of the three thematic pillars)
- Master’s degree transcripts and diploma
- Proof of English proficiency (if not from an English-taught programme)
- Letters of recommendation (number not specified but likely 2-3)
Contact
BEST Helpdesk· Programme Coordinator
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