find phd in france

• ENLIGHTEN THE FUTURE

Doctoral Studies

With its 21 doctoral schools, Université Paris Cité offers many doctoral students the opportunity to train through research in all major disciplinary fields. At the national level, once fully operational, Université Paris Cité will offfer 5% of all PhD degrees in France.

Université Paris Cité is committed to a doctoral policy aimed at research training and training by research. It trains future researchers and teacher-researchers as well as future high-level executives.

Astronomy and Astrophysics Ile-de-France – ED 127 Director : Mr. Thierry FOUCHET Contact : Mrs. Jacqueline PLANCY

Environmental Sciences Ile-de-France – ED 129 Director : Mrs Pascale BOURUET-AUBERTOT Contact : Mrs Laurence AMSILI-TOUCHON

Doctoral School of Computer Science, Telecommunications, Electronics of Paris (EDITE) – ED 130 Director : Mr. Carlos AGON Contact : Mrs Rose NAHAN

Language, Litterature and Imagery : civilisations and humanities – ED 131 Director : Mr. Mathieu DUPLAY Co-director : Mrs Emmanuelle ANDRE Contact : Mrs Robin CHEVALIER

Cognition, Brain, Behaviour (ED3C) – ED 158 Director : Mr Alain TREMBLEAU Deputy director UPCité   :Mrs Thérèse COLLINS Contact : Mrs Hélène JOUANNE

Cognition, Behaviour, Human behaviour (3CH) – ED 261 Director : Mrs Karine DORE-MAZARS Contact : Mrs Lucie ALEX

Legal, political sciences, economics and management – ED 262 Director  : Mrs Anémone CARTIER-BRESSON Contact : Mrs Josie YEYE

Mathematical science Paris Centre – ED 386 Director : M. Elisha FALBEL Co-director  : M. Pierre-Henri CHAUDOUARD Contact : Mrs Amina HARITI

Physical Chemistry and Analytical chemistry – ED 388 Director : Mrs Alexa COURTY Contact : Mrs Konnavadee SOOBRAYEN

Pierre Louis Doctoral School of Public Health in Paris : Epidemiology and Biomedical Information Sciences – ED 393 Director  : Mr. Pierre-Yves BOËLLE Contact : Mrs Koltoum BEN SAID

Research in Psychoanalysis – ED 450 Director : Mrs Mi-Kyung YI Co-director : Mr Thamy AYOUCH Contact : Mr Ali BRADOR

Frontiers of Innovation in Research and Education (FIRE) – ED 474 Director : Mrs Muriel MAMBRINI-DOUDET  Co-directeur David TARESTE Contact : Mrs Elodie KASLIKOWSKI

Earth and Environmental Sciences and Physics of the Universe – ED 560 Director : Mr. Fabien CASSE Contacts : Mrs Alissa MARTEAU

Hematology, Oncogenesis, and Biotherapies – ED 561 Director  : Mr. Raphaël ITZYKSON Contacts : Mr Maxime DA CUNHA / Mrs Aurélie BULTELLE

Bio Sorbonne Paris Cité – ED 562 Director : Mrs Caroline LE VAN KIM – Co-Director : Mrs Chantal DESDOUETS Contacts : Mr Louis DUVAL-KISTER

Drug Toxicology, Chemistry and Imaging (MTCI) – ED 563 Director  : Mrs Marie-Christine LALLEMAND Contact : Mrs Elisabeth HOMBRADOS

Physics in Ile de France – ED 564 Director  : Mr Frédéric CHEVY Co-director : Mr Philippe LAFARGE Contact : Mrs Monia MESTAR

Sports, Motricity and Humain mobility sciences (SSMMH) – ED 566 Director  : Mrs Isabelle SIEGLER Co-director : Mr. Bernard ANDRIEU Contact : Mrs Marie-Pierre RICHOUX

Language Sciences – ED 622 Director : Mrs Caterina DONATI Contact : Mrs Chafia AIT-HELAL

Knowledge, Science, Education – ED 623 Co-Director : Mr. Fabrice VANDEBROUCK Co-Director : Mrs Anne BARRERE Contact : Mrs Agathe TRAN

Social Sciences – ED 624

Department 1 Director : Mrs Véronique PETIT Contact : Mr. Jérôme BROCHERIOU

Department 2

Director : Mr Antoine REBERIOUX Contact : Mrs Sarah RAHMANI

More information :

Doctoral School website for more information The following content is in French French higher education system chart

• Skip to main navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to search
• Arts and Humanities
• Health sciences
• Science and Engineering
• Future international student
• International student
• Doctoral Candidate

International doctoral programs

International collaborations are an integral part of research. Some programs in particular enable the development an international experience in the context of doctoral education.

Published on 4/12/2019 - Updated on 6/03/2024

China Scholarship Council – Sorbonne University

The China Scholarship Council (CSC) and Sorbonne University have established a collaborative program offering excellent doctoral education to Chinese candidates in all disciplines represented at Sorbonne University. Doctoral candidates are hosted in a laboratory under the supervision of Sorbonne University and receive a scholarship funded by the CSC . This scholarship is for a maximum of 4 years. Its amount is currently 1350 €/month (amount periodically re-evaluated by the CSC). In addition, doctoral candidates will have to pay administrative fees. Candidates having obtained the CSC scholarship are required to commit to returning to China after the defense of the thesis or after a postdoctoral stay abroad (after agreement of the CSC).

Recruitment campaign

It takes place in several stages:

• A call for doctoral research projects is launched to researchers and academic researchers at Sorbonne University. The doctoral research projects are then validated by the doctoral schools and published.
• Chinese candidates send their applications to the project leaders , who forward the files of the candidates they have pre-selected to the doctoral schools. The candidates' files are examined by each doctoral school, which may issue a pre-admission letter subject to funding.
• The list of all candidates pre-selected by the Sorbonne University doctoral schools is sent to the CSC.
• Candidates must then apply in China on the CSC website . They are evaluated by the Chinese party, which notifies and awards the thesis scholarship if necessary.

Eligibility conditions of candidates

The CSC 2021 is only open to candidates of Chinese nationality who do not have any job outside the Chinese territory at the time of their application . They must demonstrate a very good level of English and, for some fields of humanities and social sciences, a very good level of French (B2 minimum, C1 recommended).

Student in China

• Be a student in the final year of a master's degree or have recently graduated or,
• Be in the first year of the PhD program, a letter of recommendation from the home university will be required.

Chinese student abroad

• Be a student in the final year of a master's degree or have graduated less than a year before applying for the scholarship.

  Calendar 2021-2022

• October 1st: Postinf of  validated projects on the Sorbonne University website , opening of students applications, Chinese candidates contact the project leaders and send them an application file . Applicants  submit their application file under this   link .
• January 31 : Closing of applications. The project leaders sent the selected application after hearing the candidates at their doctoral school. 
• Until february 21 : after examination, the Doctoral schools send the signed and stamped pre-admission letters of the selected candidates to the doctoral college
• February 28 : The doctoral collège send the pre-admissions letters to the candidates
• Until March 31 : The candidates selected by Sorbonne Universite candidate on CSC website
• May 31 : Diffusion of results by the CSC to Sorbonne Université. Results are send to candidates as well as project leaders. 

Doctoral project proposed for 2022

See doctoral project proposed for 2022

Admission file

Link to submit application

Request for specific assistance for doctoral fellows (sciences) - ASDB

For all doctoral candidates who will be affiliated to the Faculty of Sciences of the Sorbonne University, the ASDB should be set up in order to complete the 1350 euros of scholarships More information Contact for ASDB related issues

For any questions (except for the ASDB), please contact Camille Vignes [email protected]

Modeling of Complex Systems (MSC) Program

The International Doctoral Program in Complex Systems Modeling (PDI MSC) is a cross-disciplinary program at all doctoral schools of the Sorbonne University. It is the first North-South doctoral program of Sorbonne University built on the commitment to recruit for 3 years young doctoral candidates from all countries and more particularly from Southern countries where the IRD has developed many collaborations for more than 60 years.

It also relies on the network set up by the International Joint Unit UMMISCO of Sorbonne University-IRD, whose teams specialized in mathematical and computer modeling are spread over five countries: Morocco, Senegal, Cameroon, Vietnam and France.

The themes of the PDI MSC are multidisciplinary; they relate in particular to the use of complex systems modeling to solve problems of development and/or management of resources and environments, particularly in southern countries with problems in health and epidemiology, management of renewable resources, urban and regional dynamics, ecosystem dynamics.

Each year, the last three promotions of doctoral candidates registered at Sorbonne University in co-supervision with several foreign universities are gathered on the IRD Bondy campus to follow a 3-week training course.

• For more information

European Founding Myths in Arts and Literature

Sorbonne University / University of Bonn / University of Florence

The Universities of Bonn, Florence and Sorbonne have agreed on a jointly structured doctoral training course with the title "Founding Myths of Europe in Literature, Arts and Music". The disciplines concerned arethe various philologies and literatures, the history of art and music, history, political science, philosophy, sociology, without a priori restrictions. Doctoral candidates prepare a thesis on the founding myths of Europe.

• More information on the website of the University of Bonn

Italian Studies

Since 2006, the Universities of Florence, Bonn and Sorbonne have agreed on a doctoral Program with a common structure and the mention "International Doctorate in Italian Studies". The whole of Italian Studies (Literature, Language, Civilisation, Performing Arts, Cinema) is covered in this training.

Coordinator: Professor Andrea FABIANO (ED 020: Civilisations, Cultures, Literature and Societies)

• For more information, visit the Italian Literature and Culture Team website.

Humanism and Rebirth

Sorbonne University / University of Florence

Sorbonne University have signed a collaboration with the University of Florence (Università degli Studi di Firenze) that enables doctoral candidates working on the world of European Humanism, in all disciplines to enrolled in this framework.  The doctoral candidates will obtain the double title of Doctor of the University of Florence and Doctor of Sorbonne University, when they have defended their doctorate, directed in partnership by professors from both universities.

This co-diplomation is part of joint research on Humanism, directed, at the University of Florence by Donatella Coppini and at Sorbonne University by Hélène Casanova-Robin. It enables doctoral candidates to benefit from a rich education, thanks to the diversity of scientific methods implemented within each of these institutions. It also opens a large international research network on humanism (seminars, conferences, colloquia) to the doctoral candidates, due to the various collaborations already established by the partner research units within these universities.

The language of the doctorate must be either French or Italian; the subject must be on the texts (literary forms, philosophy, art, aesthetics...) of Humanism and the Renaissance (14th-16th centuries), transmitting the ancient tradition, and/or their posterity.

Coordinator: Professor Hélène CASANOVA-ROBIN Professor of Latin Literature (specialist in Humanism) Director of the E.A. 4081 Rome and its renaissances ED 022 Ancient and Medieval Worlds

Joint Ca'Foscari-Sorbonne University Program

The Universities of Venice (Ca'Foscari) and Sorbonne University have agreed to a joint doctoral program. This program has been signed between the doctoral school “Civilizations, Cultures, Literatures and Society” (ED 020) and the Venetian program” Lingue, culture e società moderne e Scienze del linguaggio”. It concerns the cultures of the Romance and English speaking countries in Europe, America and the world, the Germanic and Slavic speaking countries in Central and Northern Europe, in the following fields: literature, linguistics and civilization.

Coordinators :

Eduardo Ramos Izquierdo (ED 020)

Alexis Tadie (ED 020)

For more information, see: the University of Venice site

PhD student

You have the opportunity to come to Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University as an international PhD student, either in the framework of a joint PhD, a doctoral research stay, or as a freemover.

You want to embark on a joint PhD programme between Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University and a foreign institution? You will find below information on how a joint PhD is organised, how to apply and funding opportunities.

Supervision The PhD student conducts his/her research under the responsibility of two thesis supervisors: one at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University and the other one in a foreign institution. The two supervisors are fully and jointly committed to exercise their functions as tutors. Location The doctoral student stays alternately at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University and in the partner university. The length of stay in each institution depends on the scientific requirements and the conditions for preparing the thesis, but it should not be less than one semester. Duration The usual duration of a joint PhD is three years, although a derogation of one year may be granted by the head of the institution on the basis of a legitimate request from the student, after consultation with the thesis supervisor and the doctoral school. Enrolment fees The PhD student is enrolled both at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne and at the partner university, but is exempt from the payment of tuition fees at one of these two institutions. PhD viva The joint PhD leads to a single defence recognised by both parties. At the end of this defence, the doctoral student receives both the doctoral degree from Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University and the one from the partner institution. Language The language in which the thesis is written and defended is defined by the agreement concluded between the two institutions. When this language is not French, the thesis is completed by an abstract in French.

After applying for a joint PhD at both Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne and a foreign university, you must establish a joint PhD agreement between these two institutions. What to include in the joint PhD agreement Although Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University provides a joint PhD agreement template (Word - 67 KB) , it is not strictly mandatory as your contract is the result of an agreement between the two partner institutions. If you wish to prepare a joint PhD between Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne and an Italian university, you must use the agreement template of the Université Franco-Italienne (UFI) (Word - 50 KB - French/Italian) . If you wish to prepare a joint PhD between Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne and a Swiss or Quebec university, you must ask the latter to draw up your agreement according to the template already established with French universities.

The agreement can be bilingual (each article being successively written in both languages) or in two versions (one in French and another one in a foreign language). Signature of the joint PhD agreement The joint PhD agreement must be signed in three copies by yourself and by three people from each of the partner institutions (the thesis supervisor, the director of the doctoral school and the president of the university). At Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University, the agreement must be submitted to the thesis department of your discipline in order to be forwarded to the research department and then to the president of the university for signature.

There is no deadline for signing the joint PhD agreement, but it is normally signed during the first year of enrolment in a PhD programme. This stage usually takes a very long time, given the number of signatories and the distance between them.

Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Programme (PhD level)

• Be accepted as part of a joint PhD at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University in one of the following academic fields: Economics, Management, Law, Political science, Sciences (Mathematics, Communication sciences, Environmental science),
• Be a foreign citizen (priority is given to citizens from developing and industrialised countries),
• Be less than 35 years old
• Amount and duration : €1400 per month (+ round-trip ticket) / 10 months maximum
• Application procedure : get in touch with your doctoral school
• More information :  campusfrance.org/en/eiffel-scholarship-implementation

Other grants In order to find out about other funding opportunities, we encourage you to check calls for applications on the websites of French embassies abroad, the  Instituts français  and the  Alliances françaises . You can also check the  grant search engine  available on the Campus France website.

PhD research stay

Find out the procedure to follow if you are a PhD student at a foreign university and wish to undertake a research stay at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University.

You must first submit your research project to one of the professors at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University with an HDR (accreditation to supervise research). The list of these professors is available from the websites of the university's doctoral schools (ED):

• Archaeology (ED 112)
• Art history (ED 441)
• Economics (ED 465)
• Fine arts (ED 279)
• Geography (ED 434)
• History (ED 113)
• Law (ED 565)
• Management (ED 559)
• Philosophy (ED 280)
• Political science (ED119)  

If a professor agrees to supervise your research stay at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, he or she will issue you with a letter of invitation.

If your home institution and Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University have signed a student exchange agreement in your academic field and at your level of studies, you can take part in study mobility.  Once you have been preselected by your home university, you will receive a link from the International Relations Department of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne to access the application form, which you will have to fill in and submit before 30 th May (if you wish to arrive in September for the first semester or the entire academic year) or before 30 th October (if you wish to arrive in January for the second semester). Before your departure, you must sign a learning agreement that lists the classes that you will take at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne (among those open to exchange students) and/or activities (offered by doctoral schools) in which you wish to take part during your mobility at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University.

You must then fill in the online application form with the following documents:

• Learning agreement in  French (Word - 892 KB)  or in  English (Word - 891 KB)  completed and signed by yourself and by the academic teacher or research director of your home institution. Your learning agreement will be signed by your academic advisor at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne once you arrive in France. 
• Letter of invitation from the professor at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University who agrees to supervise your research stay.
• Language certificate of minimum level B2 ( DELF / DALF , TCF or a letter written by a French teacher from your home university). If you choose classes taught in English, you must also provide a letter written by an English teacher from your home university or an equivalent language certificate of English ( IELTS , TOEFL , etc.).
• Copy of transcript of grades obtained in higher education, with a translation in French (see  grade conversion table (PDF - 315 KB - French) ).
• Copy of the passport or identity card .
• If you are an exchange student outside the Erasmus+ programme, you will also need to provide a CV , a cover letter and a letter of recommendation .

Once your application is accepted by Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, you will receive your admission certificate by the end of June, and you will be able to enrol as an exchange student to be exempt from the payment of tuition fees at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University. During your stay in France, you will remain enrolled in your home institution and continue to pay tuition fees there. You also have the possibility to carry out an internship at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University. For more information on the procedure, please consult your home institution and the relevant doctoral school in Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne.

If your home university participates in the Erasmus+ programme, you can set up an Erasmus+ agreement for traineeship which could enable you to obtain an Erasmus+ "traineeship" grant from your home university.

Otherwise, you must draw up a hosting (or internship) agreement setting out your working conditions at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University, in particular the duration of your stay and the terms and conditions for your research supervision. This agreement must be signed by your host laboratory at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, your home university and yourself. For more information, get in touch with your doctoral school.

If your application is accepted, you will have to enrol at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne as an unregistered student. This will allow you to obtain your student card and access to the university libraries.

You come from a partner institution

• You are a PhD student at Columbia University (New York): check out the  Alliance program grants
• If you are coming under an Erasmus+ student exchange agreement, you can apply for an Erasmus+ "study" grant or an Erasmus+ "traineeship" grant. In both cases, we encourage you to contact your home institution to find out how the grants are awarded.

You do not come from a partner institution If your home university participates in the Erasmus+ programme, you can establish an internship agreement and obtain an Erasmus+ "traineeship" grant from it.

Other grants

We encourage you to check calls for applications on the websites of French embassies abroad, the  Instituts français  and the  Alliances françaises . You can also check the  grant search engine  available on the Campus France website.

Full degree application

Find below the steps to follow to apply to Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University as a full degree international doctoral student. Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne will apply the same tuition fee rates for the academic year 2024/2025 to French and foreign students regardless of whether they come from a European Union member state (voted by the Board of Governors on 26th October 2023).

You need to check that the thesis topic you plan to cover has not already been defended or is not in preparation, using the two following websites:

• www.sudoc.abes.fr
• www.theses.fr

Submit your research project to one of the professors at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University with an  HDR  (accreditation to supervise research). The list of these professors is available from the websites of the university's doctoral schools (ED):

Once a professor at Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne University who is authorised to supervise research has given his/her agreement to supervise your thesis, send your application to the doctoral school to which he/she belongs. This file must be sent between mid-June and the end of October, and must include the following documents:

• Form completed online at  ecandidat.univ-paris1.fr , duly dated and signed
• Copy of your master's degree or equivalent (the  ENIC-NARIC France can provide a statement of comparability between your degree and the French master's degree)
• Thesis project in two versions: long version (2 to 3 pages) and abstract (300 words maximum)
• Written agreement of the Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne professor who has agreed to supervise your thesis (this professor must be accredited to supervise research).

Your application will be reviewed in early November by the thesis commission of the doctoral school you have applied to. If you are accepted, you will have to sign the thesis charter upon your first enrolment.

Useful pages

Visas and residence permits, accommodation in paris, university orientation.

• The Institut in numbers
• Our governance
• Our commitments
• Conference Center
• Innovation and technology transfer
• Strategic plan for 2019-2023
• How to support us
• Why support us?
• We need you
• Disease sheets
• Find in journal
• Press documents
• Resources for medias
• Our Sars-Cov-2 research projects
• All our COVID-19 news
• Our Covid-19 disease fact sheet
• Our response to fake news
• The Institut Pasteur
• Our missions
• Medical Center
• The research journal
• All SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19 from the Institut Pasteur
• Education center
• Programs and courses
• Startup Awareness
• Housing in Paris
• Cooperation
• International programs
• International calls
• Fellowships and mobility
• Pasteur Network
• Biological Resource Center (CRBIP)
• WOAH Collaborating Centers
• Industry Partnerships
• Investor Partnerships
• The Carnot Label
• Our job offers
• When you arrive
• Why join us?
• Pasteurians and Alumni Network
• Picture Library
• Scientific publications
• Follow the institut Pasteur on Facebook
• Follow the institut Pasteur on LinkedIn
• Follow the institut Pasteur on Twitter
• Follow the institut Pasteur on Youtube
• International
• Public Health

Pasteur-Paris University International doctoral program​ (PPU)

The Institut Pasteur organizes a doctoral program in collaboration with Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, and Université Paris Saclay, for students holding a master degree or the equivalent in science, medicine and related fields.

In 2009, the Institut Pasteur, the world leading biomedical research institute founded by Louis Pasteur in 1887, inaugurated the Pasteur Paris-University (PPU) international doctoral program in collaboration with several major Parisian science universities for students holding a Master degree (or equivalent) from a university outside of France and who have not worked or resided in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to their recruitment.

PPU at a glance

Download the flyer

Download the booklet

Students conduct their research in one of the  144 laboratories  of the Institut Pasteur that offers cutting edge training in a  large variety of topics  covering Molecular and Cellular Biology, Genetics, Immunology, Microbiology, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Structural Biology, Enzymology and Metabolism, Biological Chemistry, Virology, Parasitology, Medical Mycology, Epidemiology, Infectiology, Imaging, Neurosciences, Developmental Biology and Systems Biology. They have access to a stimulating technological environment to carry out their research project. This includes opportunities to conduct technological and methodological co-developments on high-end equipment under the supervision/in partnership with technology platforms or service and research units (UTechS). In addition, PPU students will receive specific courses on soft skills, as Oral Presentation, Journal Club, Workshop on Ethics, French Lessons. ( Educational program )

Students are part of the Pasteurian community with whom they share their passion for science or technology, and their wish to contribute to the prevention and treatment of diseases. Students are immersed in an exciting, dynamic and interactive research environment including access to a large variety of technology platforms with state-of-the art expertise and equipment.

They can extend their knowledge by attending specialized courses and benefit from a vast seminar program attracting major speakers from all over the world. At the end of their studies (typically three years), students defend their PhD according to European guidelines.

The call opens in September and students are selected on a competitive basis . Candidates are first selected by host laboratories, then their applications are presented to a had hoc selection committee by mid-December. Candidates who are short listed by the selection committee are then interviewed early February, with results communicated by mid-February. Selected students are enrolled in the following October for a three-year contract.

Students selected for the PPU program receive   a salary  from Institut Pasteur including a benefits package (health insurance, unemployment insurance and retirement plan). The program beneficiates from  financial support  by Institut Pasteur, the European Community, partner institutions, governmental agencies and/or private foundations.

Assistance with administrative issues and with finding accommodation in student residences, including the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris, will also be available ( Financial support and benefits ).

Current call

The call for enrollment in october 2024 is now open..

The 2023-2024 call for enrollment of students in October 2024 will open on September 18, 2023.

• Deadline for applying to projects on the application website: October 31, 2023
• Deadline for submitting the joint application with the host laboratory: November 13,  2023
• Interview week: February 2024

Please note that the research projects are posted on the application website , and that you will have to create an account in order to visualize the projects and to apply .

Application website

PPU and PPU-Satellite Programs

From mid-September to the end of October , candidates can apply in parallel to up to 4 projects from six PPU programs: the PPU program and the PPU-Satellite programs: PPU-IMAGINE, PPU-INCEPTION, PPU-OXFORD, PPU-Research & Technology and PPU-EID and contact more than one supervisor.

Please note that to carry on with the selection process ("joint application") after November each year , candidates must choose one single project   and program  among the six.

The research projects ( PPU, PPU-INCEPTION, PPU-Oxford, PPU-Research & Technology and PPU-EID ) are posted on the application website . You will have to create an account ( link to the platform ) in order to visualize the projects and to apply .

Pease note that no application through email will be accepted.

The selection of the PPU-IMAGINE program is independently organized by Institut  Imagine , while the other four programs (PPU, PPU-INCEPTION, PPU-OXFORD and PPU-EID) share the same selection process organized by Institut Pasteur. The PPU-Research & Technology selection process is organized by Institut Pasteur, but follows a specific process detailed in:

https://www.pasteur.fr/en/ppu/RT

Furthermore, IP has a seventh PPU program, named PPU-CNBG exclusively reserved to CNBG employees. PPU-CNBG features a distinct selection process including a first selection step made by CNBG, followed by a specific selection path put in place at Institut Pasteur.

PhD students enrolled in the PPU, PPU-INCEPTION, PPU-OXFORD, PPU-Research & Technology and PPU-EID programs will benefit from Institut Pasteur working contracts (for more details see below “ FINANCIAL SUPPORT AND BENEFITS ”). The PPU-IMAGINE PhD students will benefit from Institut  Imagine   working contracts and PPU-CNBG PhD students maintain their CNBG working contracts.

China National Biotec Group (CNBG) is a subsidiary of the China National Pharmaceutical Group Corporation (SINOPHARM). Its development is part of the history of Chinese biological product industry, and it greatly contributed to China's endeavor to eradicate or reduce the incidence of various severe infectious diseases. By manufacturing and supplying over 200 types of biological products for disease prevention and for therapeutic and diagnostic use (including all vaccines for Chinese EPI program), CNBG plays a major role in safeguarding the health of the world's largest population.

The partnership between Institut Pasteur (IP) and China National Biotec Group (CNBG) is dedicated to foster R&D industrial partnerships that translate science into outcomes beneficial to patients with disease and to disease prevention. Through an interdisciplinary and comprehensive cooperation, Institut Pasteur and CNBG join forces to develop, promote and facilitate research/training of young Chinese scientists through a three-year PhD program that takes place on the Institut Pasteur campus. The Pasteur-Paris University Program PPU-CNBG provides academic and professional training to highly motivated CNBG employees who are involved in cutting-edge projects developed on the campus.

PPU-IMAGINE

Institut Imagine is Europe's leading center for research, care and teaching on genetic diseases, and its mission is to understand and cure them . The Institute brings together 1000 of the best doctors, researchers and healthcare personnel in an architecture that creates synergies. It is this unprecedented continuum of expertise, combined with proximity to patients, that allows Imagine to accelerate discoveries and their applications for the benefit of patients.

At Imagine , patients with genetic diseases are at the heart of a virtuous circle. Created by the Institute’s founders, this circle begins with the patient and finishes by curing the patient or at least relieving his/her suffering. Imagine brings together all the skills and expertise necessary to accelerate research, develop innovative care, and to generate synergies and conditions to drive innovation in one building.

Imagine ’s goal is to change the lives of families affected by genetic diseases. To achieve this goal, Imagine focuses on four major areas: research, innovative care, education, and promotion.

Through the training of future doctors and researchers and continuous training of doctors and health professionals, Institut Imagine promotes expertise in both research and medicine, which makes it unique.

Students of the PPU-IMAGINE program will work daily in laboratories of Institut Imagine and will participate in PPU activities at Institut Pasteur.

To see and apply to the projects proposed by the IMAGINE doctoral program, please use the link below:

  https://www.institutimagine.org/en/international-doctoral-program-856

PPU-INCEPTION

Some of the projects of the PPU program will be sponsored via the « INCEPTION program » in the following scientific fields: Phylodynamics; Sequence analysis; Metagenomics; Systems biology; Deep learning; Databases; Precision medicine. Students of the PPU-INCEPTION program will work daily in Institut Pasteur laboratories and will participate to the PPU activities at Institut Pasteur. A thesis co-supervision is mandatory.

PPU-INCEPTION projects are listed within the PPU projects and labelled INCEPTION.

Please note that this program is NOT open for the 2023-2024 call.

PPU-OXFORD students will have the possibility to spend up to three months of their PhD in the Chemistry Department of Oxford University. Students of the PPU-OXFORD program will work daily in laboratories of Institut Pasteur, and will follow the activities proposed by the PPU program.

PPU-OXFORD projects are listed within the PPU projects and labelled OXFORD.

PPU-RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY

This program will foster scientific projects involving the development of a new technology or methodology to answer a biological question with impact on human health. PhD students will work on collaborative projects between a laboratory and a technology platform or technology service unit (UTechS) and will spend a significant amount of their time in the partner technology platform or UTechS. Students should hold a Master degree or an equivalent university degree in science, medicine or related fields delivered by a university located inside or outside of France, by the time that the students begin the program. Selected students will receive a high level of multidisciplinary training both in biology and technology for life sciences.

PPU-Research & Technology projects are t listed within the PPU projects and labelled R&T.

 Projects in the area of Emerging Infectious Diseases will help implementing a global vision for a "One Health" approach by preparing the next generation of scientists to major challenges of (re)-emerging infectios diseases (EID). Research-based multidisciplinary projects should aim at developing health, societal, economic and communication aspects in order to prevent and manage EID. PPU-EID students will have access to a wide range of training in the disciplines covered by the new Graduate School 1H-EID . This program is in partnership with 5 Doctoral Schools (BioSPC, MTCI, Pierre Louis de Santé Publique, Science des Sociétés and ABIES). Specific fundings for thesis prolongation, mobility grants and participation to congress will also be available as well as access to international networks such as the Pasteur Network (33 Institutes in 25 countries worldwide) and the research network CAIDERA , partner program of the Graduate School 1H-EID in Germany and Gabon.

 Students of the PPU-EID program will work daily in laboratories of Institut Pasteur in 8 of the 12 Institut Pasteur Departments associated with the Graduate School 1H-EID. They will follow all the activities proposed by the PPU program.

PPU-EID projects are listed within the PPU projects and labelled EID.

Application information (PPU, PPU-OXFORD, PPU-INCEPTION, PPU-EID)

The application call opens in September for the program beginning in October of the following year.

  STUDENT ELIGIBILITY

 ​Diploma requirement:         

• Master degree or an equivalent university degree in science, medicine or related fields delivered by a university located outside of France, by the time that the students begin the program.
• In France, a master degree corresponds to five years of academic education
• Students holding a B.A. or a B.S. acquired after four years of academic education may be considered if they have additional laboratory experience of at least 6 months, with a written final report or a publication.
• Students who already have begun doctoral training elsewhere and students with a master's degree obtained in France are not eligible, due to our agreements with the doctoral schools of the Paris Universities.

Language:  The program is run in English and therefore fluency in English is required (TOEFL or other language proficiency scores may be indicated when submitting your application). No knowledge of French is required, but a basic knowledge may be useful in the daily life outside the Institute.

Age:  The PPU doctoral program does not have an age restriction, but most accepted candidates are 24-26 years old and start their Ph.D. within a year of finishing their M.S., a few within 3 years.

External funding:  Candidates with external funding are eligible to enter the PPU program if the funding constitutes employment or if the funds can be allocated to the Institut Pasteur to pay the candidate’s salary. Such candidates must go through the same application procedure and be selected by the committee.

Mobility:  Students who have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to the 1st day of recruitment by the PPU program (1st day of employment) are not eligible. Compulsory national service and/or short stays such as holidays are not taken into account. These rules are in compliance with the mobility rules of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions of the H2020 program.

THESIS ADVISOR ELIGIBILITY

• To present a candidate to the PPU program, thesis advisors must hold an HDR (Habilitation à Diriger les Recherches) diploma.
• The host laboratory must be located on the campus of the Institut Pasteur in Paris.
• The research team must be affiliated with a doctoral school of Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université or Université Paris-Saclay, and the advisors must not exceed the number of students allowed by their doctoral school.
• If there are multiple scientists holding an HDR in a host laboratory, each one can propose a project and submit an application with a prospective Ph.D. candidate. However, each advisor can only supervise one PPU student at a time.

 APPLICATION PROCEDURE

There are 3 steps in the selection process

1. Candidates choose and are chosen by a host laboratory.

From mid-September, a list of host laboratories and the research projects they propose are posted on the application website after registration:  https://ppu.pasteur.fr   (the link is proposed also in the Current Call section of this web site).

Applications must be sent through the same link: the candidates can select up to four projects they are interested in, and upload a detailed CV and a motivation letter in PDF format.  

Advisors may request additional information from candidates including reference letters and may interview some candidates by visio-conference. Each advisor must eventually choose only one candidate for his/her project to present to the Admission Committee.

Candidates may contact potential host laboratories for further information but application must be made through the application website (no email application) . Since each advisor must choose only one candidate, candidates may apply to more than one laboratory (maximum four). Advisors are asked to notify candidates who will not be selected as soon as possible. A candidate cannot be selected for more than one project.

The candidate selected for a project will then complete the application on the same platform together with the host laboratory (joint application).  Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores are welcome but not required. 

2. Evaluation of joint applications by the Admission Committee.

The joint applications are evaluated in December on the basis of academic qualifications, previous research experience, scientific potential of the candidate and adequation of the candidate with the proposed project. In general, applicants are expected to be among the top of those qualified to enter a Ph.D. program in their home country.

 The Admission Committee is composed of Institut Pasteur scientists, representatives of the Doctoral Schools (who verify that the applicant is eligible to register for a Ph.D. at a Parisian University) and members of the PPU Program Office (who are themselves also Institut Pasteur scientists). The Admissions Committee solicits written evaluations of the applications from international senior scientists who are familiar with the applicant’s national education systems. The most promising candidates are selected for an interview.

3. Interview week.

Selected candidates are invited for a four-day visit to the Institut Pasteur during February. Travel expenses (economy fare) and housing during the interview week are paid by the PPU program. During the visit, candidates:

• Visit the host laboratory and meet its members;
• Visit the Institut Pasteur (technical core facilities, museum, scientific library, …);
• Meet the Dean of the PPU program, the Director of Education of the Institut Pasteur, members of the PPU Program Office, current students and other scientists working at the Institut Pasteur;
• Are interviewed by Institut Pasteur scientists who are experts in the candidate’s past and/or future research projects and by a member of the Human Resources Department.
• Present their Master’s degree research (results or in progress) and their Ph.D. project to the Admission Committee which then asks questions;
• Meet at luncheons and dinners with students and scientists.

 The Admission Committee examines the general scientific knowledge, the past research accomplishments, the understanding of the proposed Ph.D. project, the motivation of the student, and considers the comments and advice of other interviewers. It then chooses the students to be offered final admission and those to be put on a waiting list. Around 12 openings are available each year. Candidates are informed of the decision shortly after the Interview week; successful candidates are generally given 10 days to notify the PPU of their acceptance.  Admission is highly competitive; each year many more qualified candidates apply than can be accepted.

Criteria used by the Admission Committee for the evaluation:

• Presentation: Logical and coherent presentation; appropriate information; clear oral presentation without “reading the slides”; good balance master/future phd projects. 
• Addressing the questions: comprehension of the questions, focus on the requested details, scientific knowledge, technical knowledge, ability to think about an open question.
• General attitude: positive attitude, self-confidence, attitude open to discussion.

Exact dates and deadlines for each step are clearly indicated in  Current Call .

Educational program

The PPU program prepares students for an exciting and competitive career in scientific research, through the development of a research project,  participation to academic courses, and professional development trainings. The requested duration for a PhD in France is three years.

The PPU program has its primary foundations based on scientific research. Students benefit from the highest training in conducting state-of-the-art research by mentorship, active planning and execution, as well as discussion of results with their Ph.D advisors and other leading scientists. A very dense scheduling of lectures and seminars by world renowned scientists, together with congresses and workshops, are also part of the exposure to ideas and data that students will experience on campus.

ACADEMIC TRAINING

Students are responsible for attending a specified number of courses dedicated to fundamental biological concepts and public health. The course syllabus fulfils requirements set forth by the universities, usually equivalent to one to two weeks of courses per year. Multiple theoretical and practical courses are available at Institut Pasteur Education Center ,  in Parisian universities, and at the Institut Curie. Students have their choice of courses to take, based on their personal backgrounds, interests and topics of research, in accordance with their host laboratory.

Students will also benefit from technical training by members of core facilities. Furthermore, working at the Institut Pasteur provides students with the opportunity to attend some of the many cutting-edge scientific seminars and participate in on-site symposia. Students are also encouraged to apply to international workshops and conferences, for which the PPU program will offer monetary support.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TRAINING

In addition to hands-on laboratory training, the PPU program requires attendance to several professional development training courses to enhance the student skills and complement their academic training:

• Oral presentation   workshop : To teach how to communicate their results and ideas effectively (identifying the key message, planning and preparation, presentation design, confident delivery and stress management, giving/receiving feedback).  During the II° year: four classes lasting 4 hours each.
• Journal Club : To enhance the educational experience of participants and the assimilation of scientific evidences (learning how to critically evaluate a study, reflecting upon results and draw conclusions, understanding peer review, identifying innovation and advancement, learning how to conceptualize follow-up.  (Journal Club) During the I° year: 1 session per month.
• Scientific Integrity and Ethics Training courses : To learn about and discuss various ethical aspects of being a scientist (learning ethical standards in research & science and the role of a scientist in today’s society, knowing the available resources at the Institut Pasteur in case problems arise). During the I° year: One half day on scientific integrity, one mini-workshop with three presentations (half day) + three group discussion sessions of one hour each.
• French language courses : 3 class levels (basic, intermediate and advanced) . During the I° year: two-hour sessions per week, on campus.
• To learn how to organize a symposium, students of the II° year are in charge of the  organization of the annual retreat  for all PPU students, under the guidance of the PPU Graduate Office members.
• Institut Pasteur  international network workshop : to be informed about the main missions of the Institut Pasteur and facilitate the creation of student personal network. During the III° year: half a day.

Various other training sessions are available at the Institut Pasteur, the Universities in Paris, and the Institut Curie.

THESIS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

A thesis advisory committee (TAC)  follows the student's research progress, offering guidance as needed in addition to that provided by the laboratory in which the student is working.

The PPU program staff is fully committed to building a strong network within each incoming class of students, and between all students in the program as a whole as well as with students and scientists of the campus. For that purpose, several informal meetings  are organized to give the students a chance to discuss with the members of the PPU Program Committee and PPU office on individual questions and challenges or unforeseen difficulties encountered.

ANNUAL RETREAT

The students of the 2nd year are responsible for the organization of the PPU annual retreat, in collaboration with members of the graduate office. The retreat lasts three days and takes place at a rotating location outside of Paris (in very nice settings). The Ph.D. advisors and faculty members are invited and students are encouraged to invite a few scientists who are experts on the topic of the chosen theme of the year to present keynote lectures.

One presentation is dedicated to the scientist who gave his/her name to the 1st year class. In addition, all students are expected to present their projects and/or their results, making this retreat a truly interdisciplinary symposium. Furthermore, students discuss their research progress with scientists both from within and outside of the Institut Pasteur. The goal is also to reinforce the networking among students and with other scientists.

CHARTER OF DOCTORAL TRAINING

The rights and responsibilities of students in the Pasteur-Paris University International Doctoral Program are described in the Charter of Doctoral Training, which all students, their advisors and the heads of their laboratories are required to sign before beginning the Ph.D. project.  Download here.

WELCOME DAY

A Welcome Day is organized for the incoming Class on their first day on campus. The Dean presents the PPU program, the specific and mandatory trainings, the specific guidance and support provided to the student through the TAC, the social activities and the different offices and the services they provide on campus. The Dean will also answer questions about student life in general.

CALENDAR OF SPECIAL EVENTS

GRADUATE OFFICE

Financial support and benefits.

Students will be employees of the Institut Pasteur with a three-year working contract. 

The students will receive:

1) a monthly salary of 1.800€ comprehensive of social benefits (national health care, health insurance, etc.);

2) a “welcome bonus” of 4.000€ gross which will be paid at once with their first salary;

3) the reimbursement of one round-trip ticket per year (train or plane tickets in eco-class, up to 1.300€ for non-continental europan countries, up to 350€ for continental european countries) for the country of origin, for the duration of the program, to be taken during the academic year (with no possibility of postponement or refund if not taken). 

There is no financial support for family members.

The PPU program offers:

- Assistance in housing. Upon arrival in France, PPU students may rent a place at the Cité Universitaire for 6 months (possible extension to 12 months because of current sanitary constraints). Additional information is provided to facilitate housing after that period.  (Housing)

- 750€ per year per student to cover expenses related to attending international conferences or summer courses.

- A “Tutor” is assigned to each student who together with the PPU and Graduate Offices acts as an advocate for the student scientific education and provides assistance in any practical matters. The tutors are usually scientists working on the campus in a different department with respect to the student-hosting laboratory.

- Help in administrative issues, individualized or grouped professional training classes, and counseling by the Human Resources Department.- Access to all amenities at Institut Pasteur and the universities for reduced fees, including: 

• Subsidized access to the cafeteria for lunch;
• Conferences on the campus;
• Sports within ASIP (Sport Association of Institut Pasteur);
• Rebates on cultural events, cinema and theater tickets and more from the "Conseil Social et Economique (CSE)" (Institut Pasteur employee benefits committee);
• Free WiFi on the campus. Students must abide by the institut’s rules concerning internet access and use;

Free access to a state-of-the-art Center for Scientific Information (CeRIS) with hundreds of scientific journals, the most extensive resources for microbiology, immunology and molecular biology in France and the unique World Health Organization publication repository in the country.

Please note that only students residing in Paris will benefit from complete handling of administrative issues by the Institut Pasteur.

For information:

• Financial support for the fellowships and the educational training comes from the Institut Pasteur and the European Community. In addition, the program benefits from support by other Institutions, including partner institutions of the Institut Pasteur, some governmental agencies and private foundations. (fellowships)

Starting January 2019, France adopted the pay-as-you-earn withholding tax system, meaning taxes are directly deducted from your salary. Tax information sessions are organized to explain students how to declare taxes in France.

See Previous and current students

Application (student).

Application (Host lab)

University - Doctoral School

Ph.d. program, life in paris.

What is the application process?

The application process consists of three steps: (i) the candidate must select and be selected by a host laboratory, keeping in mind that each advisor can present only one candidate. ; (ii) applications are filled out jointly by the candidate together with the host laboratory ("joint application") and are uploaded in the PPU dedicated platform (link available in the Current call section at the opening of the call). Applications are evaluated by an Admission committee that selects candidates for an interview at the Institut Pasteur; (iii) these candidates are invited for a four-day interview on the Institut Pasteur campus (or in a visio-conference format during the sanitary crisis) and present their past and future works to the Admission committee (see details in application information).

When does the application process begin?

The application period starts in mid-September. Prospective students are free to contact the lab (s) they are interested in at any time during application period.

When is the application deadline?

The deadline for  joint application is usually in November. The exact dates and deadlines for each application period will be indicated on the current call page when a call is opened. Candidates are strongly encouraged to contact host laboratories as early as possible and well before the application deadline.

What is the first step in the application process?

The first step is to identify and contact a host lab in which you would be interested in doing your Ph.D. research. Projects and contact information for laboratories recruiting prospective Ph.D. students at the Institut Pasteur are posted on the PPU dedicated platform (link available in the Current call section at the opening of the call).  Further information about laboratories and their research interests is available on the website RESEARCH . Because laboratories receive many applications and can present only one candidate, the first step of the selection process is to be chosen by a host laboratory. Please keep in mind that a candidate can only choose up to 4 host labs to apply to.

May I contact a lab that is not listed on the page of the current call?  

You are free to contact any lab of your choice at the Institut Pasteur in Paris. The list of all laboratories at Institut Pasteur can be found on the Institut Pasteur website . However, the laboratories not listed on the current call page are are not proposing a project for the PPU Program, and may not search for a student in the upcoming academic period.

May I contact several host laboratories?

Yes. You may contact as many host laboratories as you wish, but you may apply only to a maximum of 4. However, if you are selected by more than one host lab for application to this program, you will be required to choose only one.

Does my host laboratory have to be located at the Institut Pasteur in Paris?

In the majority of cases yes, only few host laboratories are located at walking distance from the Institut Pasteur (Institut de l'Audition, IDA)

What are the degree prerequisites for consideration of acceptance in the Pasteur - Paris University International Ph.D. program?

A Masters of Science (M.Sc.), or an equivalent degree that would formally qualify you to register for a Ph.D. program in the French University system, is required to be considered for acceptance into this program. In some cases, students who have carried out an undergraduate research project in addition to their B.A. or B.Sc. degree may qualify. The host lab can inquire into this with its affiliated doctoral school.

By what date must I have finished my M.Sc. or equivalent degree in order to enroll in the PhD program?

You do not need to have finished your M.Sc. or equivalent degree prior to the application deadline. The degree must be completed by the summer of the following year, in order to register at the Paris Universities. A copy of the diploma or a certified written attestation of completion must be available before the start of the program (October).

Is there an age limit or a time limit between the date of my Master’s degree and filing the application?

The PPU doctoral program does not have an age restriction, but most accepted candidates are 24-26 years old and start their Ph.D. within a year of finishing their M.S., a few within 3 years.

Do I need to apply directly to the University?

No, you do not. Your application must be uploaded in the PPU dedicated platform. If you are accepted into the program, you will receive information on when and how to register with the university/doctorla school to which your host laboratory is affiliated.

Are there country-specific requirements for international applicants?

What are the language requirements?

The program is run in English and therefore fluency in English is required. TOEFL or other language proficiency scores may be indicated when submitting your application. No knowledge of French is necessary. French language classes will be part of the Ph.D. program curriculum.

Are specific standardized test scores required and where should they be sent?

No. Graduate Record Exam (GRE) scores are welcome but not required.  

If I have done my university studies outside of France, but will earn my Master’s degree from a French institution, am I eligible to apply?

No. A master degree (or equivalent) delivered by a university located outside of France is required. A double Master degree is acceptable only if a French and non-French institutions are delivering each a Master degree.

I already have been granted a Ph.D. fellowship. Does this guarantee a place in the program?

No. All applicants are evaluated by the Admission Committee solely on the basis of their qualifications and scientific potential. All applicants must successfully pass the application and interview procedures in order to be eligible. Moreover, under French law, the external funding must constitute employment or the funds must be allocated to the Institut Pasteur to pay the candidate’s salary.

How and when will I receive notification regarding interviews?

The selection for the interview is highly competitive. The candidates selected for an interview will be notified by email toward the end of December or beginning of January.

How and when will I receive notification regarding acceptance to the Ph.D. program?

The candidates selected for the program will be notified by email shortly after the interviews, generally within 1 week.

Where do I send application materials?

Candidates do not send applications themselves. Joint application (candidate/host lab) must be uploaded on the PPU dedicated platform

Is it possible to check the status of my application once it is filed?

Is there an application fee?

Application (Host laboratory)

Can the host laboratory present a candidate without having posted a research project on the current call page?

No, all laboratories searching for a Ph.D. student for the PPU program must upload a project on the dedicated platform. Teams that have already chosen a candidate must still upload a project and contact [email protected]

Can a host Laboratory present multiple candidates?

To present a candidate to the PPU program, thesis advisors must hold an HDR (Habilitation à Diriger les Recherches) diploma. If there are multiple scientists holding an HDR in a host laboratory, each one can propose one project and submit one application with one prospective Ph.D. candidate (joint application).

With which universities must the research group be affiliated?

To participate in the Pasteur - Paris University International Doctoral program, a host laboratory must be affiliated with a Doctoral School of one of the three partner Universities of the program: Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, and Université Paris Saclay.

Can an advisor that already has a Ph.D. student in the program present another candidate for the following application period?

No advisor may have more than one Ph.D. student within the program.

What information should be contained in the host laboratory introduction letter?

The host laboratory must certify that it is willing to host and supervise the prospective Ph.D. candidate if he/she is accepted into the program. The host laboratory should explicit why it proposes the candidate for its laboratory and for the PPU program.

Following the interview, when will I be notified of acceptance into the Ph.D. program?

The candidates selected for the program and their host labs will be notified by email shortly after the interviews, generally within 1 week.

How long is the interview stay in Paris?

Four days. The exact dates are indicated on the Current Call Page. During the sanitary crisis, the interview week is done through visio-conference for 4 days, in the same format as the one on site (see below).

What is involved in the interview week process?

During your stay you will visit your host laboratory to meet and discuss the research project with the prospective advisor and laboratory members. Individual interviews will be performed by Faculty members to assess each candidate’s qualifications for the PPU program. You will tour the Institut Pasteur and its core facilities, and meet with current PPU students and the PPU program staff. To see what scientific life is like at the Institut Pasteur, meetings are also planned with scientists and other Ph.D. students at meals and in informal social events. You will be interviewed by the Admission Committee, during which time you will present your Master’s degree research (results or in progress) and planned Ph.D. project.

Will travel and accommodation expenses for participating in the interview week be covered by the PPU Program?

What is the connection between the Institut Pasteur and the universities of Paris?

The Institut Pasteur is a non-profit research foundation that has maintained a long tradition in teaching. Several major science courses organized at the Institut Pasteur are integrated into the master degrees of several Parisian universities. For the PPU program, the Institut Pasteur has developed a special partnership with Université de Paris, Sorbonne Université, and Université Paris Saclay. This partnership means that students are employed by the Institut Pasteur and registered at a Parisian university. Students enrolled in the PPU program perform their research project on the campus of the Institut Pasteur. The universities will deliver the diploma, on which will be indicated the co-operative nature of this program through the title “Pasteur - Paris University International Doctoral Program.

At which Parisian university will I register?

Your laboratory must be affiliated with a doctoral school of one of the three partner universities. You will be registered at the same doctoral school and university as your research team.

What is a doctoral school?

A doctoral school is an association of research teams preparing Ph.D. students to a career in research through an educational program for the research profession. Each French university has several doctoral schools which are specialized in specific scientific domains. To be enrolled in a Ph.D. program, the student registers at a doctoral school.

Will the courses differ depending on my university affiliation?

Completion of a Ph.D. at a French university requires participation in several scientific courses and professional trainings. All students enrolled in the PPU program will participate in a similar number of courses and training hours, regardless of the university affiliation. To fulfill this requirement, students will be able to choose among a number of courses that are the most appropriate and interesting for their individual training, including the ones that are required by the doctoral school.

Who will deliver the Ph.D. diploma?

The university will deliver the diploma, which will indicate the co-operative nature of this program through the title “Pasteur - Paris University International Doctoral Program”.

What will be the approximate starting date for each new academic year?

The program starts the first week of October. Arriving in Paris between September 15 and October 1 will help to familiarize yourself with the city, the housing and the university, as well as to prepare all the necessary paperwork. The exact arrival date may vary from student to student and will depend on the status of his/her visa application (if you are not from the European Community).

What is the expected duration of the program, from beginning to the defense of the Ph.D.?

Students are expected to finish their Ph.D. in three years. Sometimes extensions may be granted when required and justified and are subject to approval from the doctoral school. Extensions will only be given by universities if external funding is available. The PPU program only provides funding for three years.

Can you summarize the practical and academic offerings of this Ph.D. program?

The program aims to meet the highest standards for education and training of Ph.D. students in the world. While spending most of the time working in individual research projects in a laboratory at Institut Pasteur, students benefit from excellent scientific courses and professional development trainings. The students will also be able to attend exciting seminars and participate in interactive workshops, annual retreats and journal clubs. The students within this program will be well supported by the staff, acting as advocates for the students’ scientific education and to provide assistance in any practical matters. A thesis advisory committee (TAC) will follow the students’ research progress and will offer guidance as needed in addition to that provided by the laboratory in which the student is working. The program offers a salary covering living costs and including health insurance. The program also offers assistance in obtaining housing upon arrival in France. Financial support for attending international conferences or summer courses will also be provided.

Does the Ph.D. program also include a Master’s program?

Who do I contact if I have further questions?

If you have further questions, do not hesitate to contact [email protected]

Is housing provided?

Upon your arrival in Paris, you will be able to stay in Institut Pasteur reserved housing at the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris (CIUP) for 6 months (up to 12 months during the sanitary crisis). The rent is paid by the student. This is a beneficial time to look for housing. The real estate market is tight and students are encouraged to actively seek housing rental opportunities. They can apply independently to continue living at the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris (CIUP) and to the international houses of their respective countries as well. ( Housing )

Is there additional financial support given for family and/or spouses?

Will I receive help with my Visa application and other paperwork?

Yes. The PPU, the Graduate as well as the Human Resources offices of the Institut Pasteur will provide assistance. A Hosting Agreement ("Protocol d'accueil") for visa application will be sent to students selected to enter the program from outside of the European Community. Precise instructions will be sent to all students accepted into the program about the paperwork that they need to complete and the steps they need to follow. The instructions must be followed carefully.

Does Institut Pasteur provide funds for travel and moving expenses when arriving in Paris?

No. However, a 4000€ one-time bonus is added to the first paycheck.

Is healthcare included in the salary?

Where can I find more info on healthcare?

• DOCTORAL SCHOOLS DIRECTORY DOCTORAL SCHOOLS
• SUBJECTS (PHD, MASTER'S & POSTDOC TRAINING) SUBJECTS
• CALLS FOR PROJECTS CALLS

Academic specialties

Language science and didactics Comparative literature Applied foreign languages Ancient languages and literature History of books and publishing Languages, literatures and intermedialities French language, literatures and francophone literatures European and international literatures Anglophone languages, literatures and civilizations, Irish and American studies, cultural studies Germanic languages, literatures and civilizations Slavic languages, literatures and civilizations Romance languages, literatures and civilizations (Spanish, Italian, Portuguese) Chinese languages, literatures and civilizations Arabic languages, literatures and civilizations Breton language, literature and culture Applied arts Plastic arts Performing arts (cinema, theater, dance) Archaeology Architecture Aesthetics and philosophy of art Musicology Art sciences History of the arts (ancient, medieval, modern, contemporary, contemporary, architecture)

• Total number of PhD students registered in the school : 222
• Number of foreign PhD students : 53
• Possibility to write the dissertation in English
• English as Working language
• Methodological courses in English
• Courses and conferences in English
• Apply to predefined thesis subjects
• Required level French : B2
• Before applying, candidates need to contact a thesis supervisor
• The thesis application form is available in June
• It is submitted to the doctoral school and examined by the doctoral school council
• candidates are notified of results
• Optional funding
• Contact for registration & informations Mrs Valérie MARIE-COHIER +33299141143 [email protected]

Center for international mobility Rennes

• Doctoral college Collège doctoral de Bretagne
• Description
• Laboratories

Presentation

International, application, welcome services, art history and criticism - ea 1279, arts: practices and poetics - ea 3208, center for breton and celtic research - ea crbc, center for the study of ancient and modern languages and literature - ea 3206, center for the study of correspondance and diaries of the 19th and 20th centuries - ea 7289, center for the study of languages, territories and cultural identities - brittany and minority languages - ea 202224, english-speaking countries: communities and writing - ea 1796, heritages and constructs within the text and the image - ea 4249, interlingual research center: memories, identities, territories - ea 4327, research group on the invention and evolution of forms - ea grief, number of phd students 222, internationalization of the doctoral school.

• Skip to content
• Go to accessibility page

Undertaking a PhD in France

Are you considering doing your PhD in France? Below, discover everything you need to know. Learn more about the application criteria, project development process, and types of PhDs.

Advanced degree

In France, a PhD is the highest academic degree you can earn. Doctoral studies are a form of research-based training with the same value as professional experience. PhD students carry out research on a defined topic under the supervision of their thesis advisor(s). 

PhD students are enrolled in doctoral programmes run by institutions of higher education (i.e., universities or grandes écoles ), but they are trained within research laboratories. Students carry out original scientific research either on their own or as part of collaborative projects; the results form the basis for their dissertations. Students must also go through a thesis defence in which they present their findings to a committee that judges the quality of their work. Those who succeed are awarded doctoral degrees. 

Generally, earning a PhD requires 3 years of full-time research. One-year extensions may be granted under certain circumstances. In exceptional cases and for compelling reasons, a student may request a leave of absence of up to 1 year. Such requests are only granted once, upon approval by the establishment’s director. Any leave of absence is excluded when calculating thesis duration, given that the student suspends their training and research during that period.

To be eligible for doctoral studies, you must have a master’s degree. This requirement can be waived by an establishment’s director if approval is granted by the doctoral programme’s administrators. You need to show that you have an equivalent level of education or professional experience.

PhD programmes frequently have an international component. For example, doctoral students often take part in joint degree programmes or dual degree programmes, a situation that is facilitated under French law. 

Status of doctoral students

In France, the status of doctoral students depends on their funding source. Anyone doing a PhD is officially recognised as a student because they must be enrolled in a doctoral programme at an institution of higher education. In addition, many are also salaried workers because they are contractual employees.

International doctoral students with foreign grants have the status of students in France.

There are different types of doctorates in France. Here are some common examples: 

Traditional PhD 

• 3 years of work in a single research laboratory
• Leads to a French degree
• Enrolment and thesis defence occur at a single institution
• Single thesis advisor (or co-advisors, if necessary)

Jointly supervised PhD

• Thesis jointly supervised by a set of co-advisors—one from the student’s main research laboratory (affiliated with the enrolment institution) and one from a separate institution, either in France or another country
• Enrolment and thesis defence occur at the institution affiliated with the main research laboratory
• Single degree granted by the above institution 
• Thesis research might arise from a national and/or international collaboration

Dual degree PhD

• Thesis jointly supervised by a set of co-advisors, with research taking place in two laboratories
• Individual dual degree agreement ( convention individuelle de co-tutelle ) establishes a research framework
• Enrolment occurs at two institutions—one in France and one abroad
• Tuition is paid to a single institution
• Single thesis defence but two degrees (one from each institution)

Professional PhD

• Research carried out at a private company partnered with a publicly funded laboratory and its affiliated institution of higher education
• Thesis jointly supervised by a set of co-advisors—one from the company and one from the laboratory
• Work is split between the company and laboratory
• Student contractually employed by the company
• Degree is granted by the institution of enrolment
• Excellent opportunity to gain professional experience 

Doctoral training

The first step in your doctoral studies is to enrol at an institution (university or grande école ) with an official PhD programme that is under the aegis of the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research. Such doctoral programmes are structured to provide a high level of personalised training and supervision during your thesis work:

• You are under the supervision of one or more thesis advisors
• You carry out your work within an affiliated research unit and take part in laboratory activities
• You can participate in courses and seminars designed to establish a solid scientific foundation and guide the development of your research

Your thesis committee will ensure your studies are advancing smoothly, notably by evaluating your training conditions and research progress. To enhance your employability, your doctoral programme and thesis advisor will

• Encourage you to attend national, European, and international conferences and publish in national, European, and international journals
• Design a training programme compatible with your PhD project
• Help you exploit your skills and training

In France, you can write and defend your thesis exclusively in English. However, your thesis summary must be translated into French.

Your PhD project

To begin your PhD, you must find a host research laboratory, a thesis topic, a thesis advisor, and funding. We recommend that you begin this process at least 1 year before your target start date. You can begin by looking at the list of thesis topics posted by doctoral programmes and institutions of higher education. You can also directly contact laboratories working in your area of interest. As a general rule, your future thesis advisor will help you with funding.

International students may be able to find other sources of funding, such as fellowships from embassies, the governments of their home countries, and/or partnership agreements between institutions.

Enrolling in a doctoral programme

Once you have resolved all of the above, you must submit your project to your doctoral programme for approval. Your thesis advisor and the laboratory director will evaluate the quality and feasibility of your proposal.

If their assessment is favourable, the director of the doctoral programme will allow you to enrol. You will be informed of the decision by the head of the doctoral programme (the university or grande école president). The French Ministry of Higher Education and Research establishes the amount of tuition paid by bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students. Tuition levels are the same everywhere in France.

In 2023, annual tuition for doctoral students was €380. There is also a campus activities fee (CVEC) of €92. In certain cases, both may be waived.

Useful link

• Getting a PhD in France—directory of doctoral schools

Related articles

• Doctoral studies at INRAE
• Joining INRAE
• Working conditions & benefits 
• Publishing results & managing data

Last update: 20 March 2024

• UFR Droit Economie Management
• UFR Médecine
• UFR Pharmacie
• UFR Sciences
• UFR Sciences du Sport
• AgroParisTech
• CentraleSupélec
• ENS Paris-Saclay
• Institut d'Optique
• Polytech Université Paris-Saclay
• Accessibility

Prepare a PhD

The PhD degree attests skills acquired through research in the framework of the doctoral trainin g, which has a 3 years reference duration when the research work is carried out full-time, and a 3 to 6 years duration when the thesis is prepared part-time. The PhD degree can also be obtained by the validation of the acquired experience (VAE). 

The PhD degree - the highest internationnaly recognized by higher education - is awarded after the defense of a thesis or the presentation of a set of original scientific works. 

The different frameworks to prepare a PhD

• Initial traininf (IF in French)
• Lifelong training, excluding initial training  (FTLVin French)
• Validation of the experience acquired (VAE  in French)

Admission to PhD training

• A procedure
• Examination of an application 

Three regimes for three PhD preparation frameworks

Registration in initial training is possible as a continuation of a master or other equivalent degree. 

• In initial training, the PhD is full time prepared  The preparation is initially set to last  3 years. Beyond this 3 years, extensions of the duration of preparation are possible, with derogation.
• Funding dedicated to the preparation of the thesis is requested for a registration in initial training.  The reference amount of this funding corresponds to the remuneration of the PhD contract established by public law.  Derogations from this funding threshold can be requested from the head of the establishment. 

PhD students have a main research activity in one of the research team or unit of the doctoral school. 

They also have complementary PhD activities and training, intended to develop their scientific culture, their international openness and to prepare their professional future. The PhD program is personalized and defined with each doctoral school, in a framework commin to all PhD students at Université Paris-Sacaly. 

They can have complementary activities outside research, which contribute to the preparation of their professional future (teaching mission, scientific mediation, expertise of promotion of research), limited to one sixth of their time each year.

• A thesis monitoring committee report must be submitted by the PhD student for each of their re-registrations.

Registration in lifelong training concerns two categories of people : 

• Those who obtained their last diploma more than a year before the desired date of first enrollment in a PhD (whether the thesis is prepared full-time or part-time, and regardless of the financing conditions envisaged)
• Those who plan to prepare their thesis at the same time as a main activitiy other than the preparation of thesis, regardless of the date of the obtention of the last degree. The main activity means that its provides more than half of the income. 
• Lifelong training does not two types require a funding dedicated to the thesis preparation, but its comission ensures, before the first registration, that material and financial conditions are correct.  Ultimately, candidates who have no funding to prepare their thesis and have no income from their main activity could prepare a thesis, as long as the doctoral school and the commission can ensure that the material and financial resources conditions. 

In lifelong learning, the PhD can be prepared on a part-time basis . 

• The duration initially fixed for the preparation of the thesis depends on the time that can be devoted to its preparation . It is between 3 and 6 years. 
• A derogation must be  requested to extend the duration of the PhD beyond the one initially fixed . Its could be discussed during the monitoring committee taht takes place each abnd every year before re-registration.

PhD students prepare their thesis in one of the research teams or units of their doctoral school . The distributio of their time between the research unit and their non-research activities is fixed from the first registration. 

As PhD student in initial training, PhD student in lifelong training also have PhD complementary activities and training, intended to develop their scientific culture, their international opennes, and to prepare their professional future. Still, their training courses are arranged to feet with the specificities of their situation. 

A thesis monitoring committee must stand each and evrey year, before re-registration. Among other things, it help to check whether the conditions of the lifelong training PhD are suitable, or deserve to be rearranged. 

Planning lifelong training arrangement procedure

Unlike initial training and lifelong training, registration for a validation of the experience acquired can only be done when the original scientific work constitutes a coherent whole, that what makes possible to consider a defense. Those works may have been carried out partly in a research unit of the doctoral school (for example, within the framework of a volunteer researcher agreement), or entirely outside the academic framework. 

• PhD degree is awarded after a thesis defense or a presentation of the original scientific works .

To obtain a PhD degre by a validation of the experience acquired, the candidate must:

• Write a thesis or a dissertation to assess the personal part of collective work . This dissertation or thesis will be evaluated by two rapporteurs and by a defense jury. Composition and expectations of the jury are the same as the ones for the initial training or the lifelong training PhD
• As for the PhD students, the thesis or the dissertation will have to be legaly deposed and, if necessary published on the national portal www.theses.fr
• An accompanying, chosen among the supervisors of the doctoral school, can be offered for the preparation of the thesis or the dissertation 
• The work having been prepared before registration in the Validation of the experience acquired, the accompanying is not a thesis director. He does not ensure the scientific direction of the research work, but guides the candidate in the preparation of the dissertation or thesis.
• He plays the role of thesis director for the defense (in particular to propose the defense)

Documents relating to the preparation of a validation of the experience acquired

• Procedure  2016_05_25_procedure_de_doctorat_en_vae_0.pdf - ( 545.03 KB)
• Admissibility file 2020_12_15_dossier_doctorat_en_vae.docx - ( 69.01 KB)
• The vademecum "Validation of the experience acquired and PhD" vademecum_0.pdf - ( 1.76 MB)
• The charges  tarifs-vae-complet.pdf - ( 46.2 KB)

Admission to a PhD Programme

A PhD application is a complete package that includes

• A candidate with a research project
• An original thesis topic
• A thesis director
• A team to host the research
• A proposed funding or a proof that the material and financial conditions necessary for the successful completion of the doctoral thesis 

Candidates apply to the doctoral school that their research or team unit is attached to  via the Université Paris-Saclay application portal . Their PhD director must also be attached to that doctoral school. 

An application is considered to have been submitted only once it has been completed and finalised . To do this, candidates must : 

• Have submitted all the documents requested by the doctoral school - A thesis subject - Information on the contions of the doctoral programme (thesis supervision, research unit) - CV - Transcripts - Other documents required by the doctoral school
• Obtain a favourable opinion from the thesis director
• Obtain a favourable opinion from the research or team unit director to wich the thesis directors responds

The application process is carried out via internet tool ADUM - an administrative tool for management of the PhD, from application to graduation.  Data recorded in ADUM are subjected to the RGPD regutions. 

Once the complete file has been submitted and the application has been finalised, it is examined by the doctoral school to which the applicant belongs. 

• In case of a favorable opinion on the application file, the candidate then presents his/her doctoral project and previous research experience during an audition, in front of a admission committee organised by the doctoral scool. This hearing is required in both initial formation and lifelong training, and regardless the conditions of funding and the progress of the thesis preparation envisaged.
• If the admissions committee gives a favourable opinion, the future PhD student may registered for the first time. 

• An unforgettable adventure
• Educational excellence in France
• Study at the heart of Europe
• Enjoy numerous benefits
• Industrial dynamism and French innovation
• The art of living à la française

• French system
• Higher education institutions
• French degrees, LMD system and equivalences
• Cost of studies
• Quality of degrees and institutions
• Online or distance programme
• Scholarships programmes
• Scholarships for French students or students living in France
• Welcoming of students and researchers in exile

• Student and Campus Life Contribution (CVEC)
• Reception services in your city
• Prepare your budget
• Bank account
• Working while studying in France
• Learning French
• Finding a student sponsor
• Organising your stay as a scholarship holder
• Being a student with a disability in France

• French regions
• French language
• Getting around
• Join the France Alumni network
• Finding work in France
• How to start a company in France

• Le séjour de recherche
• The role of Campus France
• The tools of Campus France for international researchers
• Research Labs
• Mapping French research
• Outstanding French researchers
• Overview of French research by field
• Excellence of French research in videos
• Accueil des étudiants et des chercheurs en exil

• What is involved in a Doctorate in France?
• Doctoral Schools directory
• PhD subjects
• Pre-Doctorate programmes
• How to enrol in a Doctorate
• How to finance your Doctorat (PhD)
• Use the "Research" portal

FAQ – Doing my Doctorate in France

• Study in a Post-Doctorate in France
• Join a summer school
• Come to France with the status of invited professor

• Reception programmes and doctoral student associations
• Apply for your visa / Validate your residence permit
• Prepare for your arrival in France
• Finding accommodation in France
• Social Security for doctoral students and researchers
• Living in France

• Programs with Sub-Saharan Africa countries
• Programs with Asian countries
• Programs with European countries
• Programs with Oceania countries
• Programs with American countries

• Campus France missions
• Campus France organisation
• Campus France activities by geographic area
• Events organised by Campus France
• Public procurement
• Mobile applications

• Operation and governance
• Joining the Forum
• Member benefits
• Committees and workshops
• Updating your information online

• France Alumni network
• European projects
• Choose France, La stratégie d'attractivité des étudiants internationaux
• The French+Sciences program

• Campus France expertise
• Make Our Planet Great again
• Le programme « Partenariats avec l’enseignement supérieur africain »
• Le programme de bourses IsDB-France
• Scholarships program for Syrian students in exile in France
• Pakistan: Higher Education Commission scholarships programmes
• Les bourses pour les étudiants français ou résidant en France

• L'accueil des étudiants internationaux
• Label Bienvenue en France
• Nos événements
• Le réseau des responsables de l'accueil
• L'accueil des étudiants réfugiés et en exil
• L'accueil des étudiants en situation de handicap
• Les mémos de Campus France
• Afrique du Sud
• Burkina Faso
• Congo - Brazzaville
• Côte d'Ivoire
• République Démocratique du Congo
• Corée du Sud
• Ouzbékistan
• Philippines
• Territoire de Taïwan
• Biélorussie
• République tchèque
• Royaume-Uni
• Arabie Saoudite
• Émirats arabes unis
• République dominicaine
• Resources center

Below are all of the answers to your questions about doing a Doctorate in France: duration, content, admission requirements, how it works, legal and administrative framework, etc.

Doing a Doctorate in France

How long does a Doctorate take?

In France, it takes three to six years to complete a Doctorate, depending on the field, although there is no legal time limit. In the natural and technological sciences (mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, etc.), it usually takes three years and can be extended for a fourth year. In the social sciences and humanities (law, management, sociology, history, etc.), it usually takes four to five years.

During the first three years, re-enrolment is virtually automatic at the start of each academic year. After that, each year you will have to submit a file to reassure your doctoral school that you can complete your thesis within the time frame in order for your re-enrolment to be approved.

What is a doctoral school?

Doctoral schools are attached to a university or Grande Ecole , and are dedicated to supervising and teaching doctoral students. The work is conducted in conjunction with a research laboratory and under the authority of a thesis supervisor. They also supervise the enrolment and re-enrolment of doctoral students in their host institute.

What is a doctoral college?

A doctoral college includes all of the doctoral schools at a single university. It lays out the general policy for the organisation of the Doctorate within each institution.

Does a Doctorate give you ECTS credits?

With a few exceptions, French universities do not award ECTS for a Doctorate. The Doctorate is not generally considered training in and of itself but rather a research apprenticeship.

What degree will I be awarded at the end of a joint Doctorate?

At the end of a joint Doctorate, you receive two degrees : one from each institute you were enrolled in. Each degree nonetheless states that your Doctorate was completed in both establishments. It is possible, but rare, to receive a joint degree , bearing the names and logo of each institute.

Gaining admission to a Doctorate

What degree is required for admission to a Doctorate in France?

To be accepted for a Doctorate, you must hold a Master's degree or equivalent (national degree conferring the level of master). You can also demonstrate research experience or a five-year Bachelor's to the doctoral school in which you wish to enrol in order to have certain requirements waived and be authorised to enrol.

How to find a research laboratory

To find a research laboratory in your field, check our directory of doctoral schools . Use key words or field to narrow your search and select a doctoral school. The "Laboratories" tab then lets you scroll through the list of research laboratories associated with the selected school.

When do I have to apply?

Doctorate offers are generally published in January, and state an application deadline between April and May for the start of the academic year in September of the same year. Some are occasionally published during the year. Register on our search portal and create e-mail alerts so you don't miss an offer.

When does the academic year start and stop?

The academic year starts in September and lasts until the end of August. Classes take place between September and June. During the summer holidays, there is less activity and most doctoral schools are closed in August. Nonetheless, in a Doctorate, especially if you have a doctoral fellowship , you aren't subject to the academic timetable. In general, you have the right to five weeks of holidays that you can take throughout the year.

What are the admission requirements for a Doctorate?

Each doctoral school and thesis supervisor have their own admission requirements. The main requirement is your ability to complete the research. You will have few classes to take in a Doctorate and you must above all be independent: you will have to work on your own on a specific topic, within a laboratory and liaising with a team.

You will be selected for your ability to find information by yourself and to draft and implement a research protocol. If you have already authored or co-authored a paper, presented results in a conference or completed a long internship within a research laboratory, don't forget to mention it on your CV.

Do I first have to do a Master's internship in a laboratory?

It is not a requirement to complete a Master's internship in a laboratory. In the natural and technological sciences, it's an advantage when applying for a Doctorate. It will help you become familiar with the world of research, and eventually be noticed by your future thesis supervisor.

What is involved in a Doctorate

What is a doctoral fellowship?

A doctoral fellowship is a work contract specifically for doctoral students. It lasts three years, and can be renewed for one additional year twice at most. The doctoral student's net salary is approximately 1,350 to 1,400 euros per month in 2017. It can be higher when you perform additional activities.

Do I need a work contract or doctoral fellowship to enrol for a Doctorate?

A doctoral fellowship is not required to enrol in a Doctorate. Only a few research institutes do not accept unfunded doctoral students. Nonetheless, you will feel more at ease if you are under contract. Just like with every work contract, you will then qualify for unemployment benefits when it terminates and you will contribute to your pension if you are a European national. Doctoral fellowships are very frequent in the natural and technological sciences, much less so in the social sciences and humanities.

Can I do a Doctorate with a grant?

Generally, yes. Some research institutes do not accept doctoral students with grants. Generally speaking, your grant must be enough so that you can live and work under good conditions. Those with grants must also be able to take out health insurance and public liability insurance.

Each doctoral school determines the minimum amount of funding required for enrolment in a Doctorate at that school. It generally varies from 1,000 to 1,400 euros per month. If your grant is less than that, your laboratory must be able to pay you an additional amount that will ensure you receive the minimum amount required by the Doctoral school.

If I do my Doctorate within a research institute such as the CNRS, CEA or INRA, will I also be enrolled in a university?

Yes, as research institutes are not authorised to award degrees. You must therefore enrol in the university that is the partner of your research institute so that your Doctorate will be certified by the State.

What is a sandwich Doctorate?

A doctoral stay, called a "sandwich Doctorate", is when you spend time in a different university than the one you are enrolled in. For example, if you do a Doctorate at Yale University and you come to spend six months in a research laboratory at the University of Rheims.

There are two types of sandwich Doctorates. As part of a joint Doctorate, you must be enrolled in both a university in your country of origin and a French university. As part of a simple sandwich Doctorate, you generally won't need to enrol in the university , but it is recommended that you inform the doctoral school of your presence.

What is the difference between a Doctorate (PhD) and a DBA?

Some schools, in particular in management, award DBAs ( Doctorate in Business Administration ). These DBAs are outside the academic structure and are not certified by the French State.

A DBA associates classes and applied research. The objective of a DBA is that students apply theoretical knowledge in order to improve their professional practice. The first year is spent on training and a review of the scientific literature on the student's research subject. The following years are spent on writing a thesis and doing practical work. Some management schools offer a DBA falsely entitled PhD.

To obtain a Doctorate certified by the French State, you must be enrolled in a doctoral school and have conducted research that significantly adds to our knowledge.

Additional questions

Can I do my Doctorate in France without speaking French?

In theory yes, but it varies depending on the field. In the natural and technological sciences, it is generally entirely possible to conduct your research, write your thesis and correspond in English with your thesis supervisor and colleagues. In the arts and humanities, on the other hand, it's much more difficult. Find out for your particular case from your doctoral school.

Will my medical costs be covered while I am doing my Doctorate?

If you have a work contract, doctoral fellowship or other contract, you are automatically registered for general Social Security. Your employer pays your contributions for you.

If you do not have a work contract you must register for Student Social Security at the same time while you enrol at the university. 

On average, Social Security reimburses 70% of medical expenses. For better coverage, you can take out complementary health insurance.

Related contents

Follow the main steps to come study in France

Go to content | Navigation | Direct access | Connection

• Organization
• Major projects
• International policy
• Study offer
• Programs in English
• Learning french
• Applying to UPEC
• Presentation
• Research Strategy
• Research structures & platforms
• Open science
• Doctoral studies
• Practical information
• Our campuses
• Community life

• Download PDF
• Send by email

You are here :

• Research and Innovation ›

Funding your PhD

Obtaining a doctoral grant is at times a prerequisite for enrolment in a PhD program. Even when it is not a condition for enrolment, it removes the financial worry and enables doctoral students to devote almost all their working time to their research. It is therefore recommended for anyone wishing to enroll in a PhD program, regardless of their field of study, to look for sources of funding. Once the type(s) of funding has been identified, students must inform their thesis supervisor before applying.

As there are many organizations and institutions that fund doctoral projects, the list below is only indicative and is not intended to be exhaustive. It includes both existing UPEC programs and external sources of funding.  

UPEC's Internal Funding Schemes

The sources of funding below can be used to finance a doctoral contract that has the following specific features:

• Specific duration : 3 years. The doctoral contract may not be signed for a shorter term, but may be extended by amendment in the event of exceptional circumstances.
• Employer : Public higher education/research institution, industrial and commercial establishments, private companies.
• Minimum salary : as of July 1, 2023: €2,074.78 gross.
• Eligibility : All current or future holders of a master's degree. No age or nationality requirements.
• When to apply : We recommend that you contact your doctoral school, research laboratory, or funding organization as early as January.

Applications are to be submitted to the doctoral school within the timeline set by the school. The application must include information on the research project and justification of its relevance to the laboratory's work, the approval of the prospective thesis supervisor(s), and diplomas or proof of successful completion of the master's degree. Applications will be examined in line with the doctoral school's internal procedures and practices. See Our Doctoral Schools

Each year, UPEC funds partial grants for doctoral students which may be co-financed by laboratories, university departments, and/or external sources.  Applications must be sent to the Research and Development Department (Direction de la recherche et de la valorisation) at [email protected] following the timeline and procedures set out in the campaign launch letter. Read the launch letter for the 2023 campaign (French version)

Each year, UPEC finances doctoral grants in connection with graduate programs. Applications must be sent to the program coordinators and the doctoral schools following the timeline drawn up at the end of the academic year.

List of Graduate Programs:  

Graduate schools are designed to enable each university campus to enhance the impact and international appeal of its programs and research in one or more scientific fields. Graduate schools work with research bodies and offer master's and PhD programs, as well as host one or more high-level research laboratories. See our Graduate Schools

Funding Sources Outside UPEC

Under the CIFRE scheme (industrial agreement for research-based training), a company hires a PhD student to work in a public laboratory on a specific research project. After signing an employment contract with the CIFRE recipient, generally for a fixed term, the company pays the doctoral student a salary. Visit the website of the French National Association for Research and Technology (ANRT)

The national campaign for doctoral contracts for people with disabilities is launched every year on the French Ministry of Higher Education's website .

Applications should be sent to the doctoral school, which will forward them to UPEC for further processing.

Specific and/or One-Off Funding

A number of organizations fund doctoral scholarships:  

The Campus France Eiffel scholarship is awarded for a maximum of 18 months to students enrolled in the first year of a joint PhD program that partners with a foreign higher education institution.

Eiffel scholarship holders will receive a monthly allowance of around €1,700, plus direct payment for a number of services such as international transportation, national transportation, insurance, accommodation, cultural activities, etc.

For further information, as well as guidance for your research project, please contact the Campus France office in your home country, the cooperation and cultural action department of the French embassy, or the relevant UPEC services at [email protected].

The Eiffel Scholarship Program | Campus France

The International Relations Department provides financial assistance to doctoral students enrolled at UPEC who conduct research abroad.  For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit the website below or contact UPEC's International Relations Department at: [email protected] / [email protected] .

International mobility grants for PhD programs provide financial support for doctoral students in conducting their research activities abroad (excluding seminars and conferences). Financial assistance is also available for doctoral students enrolled in an international joint PhD program. Candidates must contact their doctoral school to learn about the prerequisites and submit their application within the stated timeline. See Our Doctoral Schools

Applications and registration

In the same section.

Receive job alerts that match your preferences.

24 PhD jobs in France

Find PhD jobs in France here. To have jobs sent to you the day they're posted, sign up for job alerts.

• PhD positions in Marseille (9)
• PhD positions in Nancy (6)
• PhD positions in Clermont-Ferrand (2)
• PhD positions in Lille (1)
• PhD positions in Grenoble (1)
• PhD positions in Montpellier (1)
• PhD positions in Saint-Etienne (1)
• PhD positions in Fontainebleau (1)
• PhD positions in Plouzané (1)
• PhD positions in Sophia-Antipolis (1)

Other countries

• PhD positions in Belgium (178)
• PhD positions in Netherlands (114)
• PhD positions in Sweden (46)
• PhD positions in Switzerland (45)
• PhD positions in Germany (33)
• PhD positions in Luxembourg (26)
• PhD positions in Finland (15)
• PhD positions in Austria (14)
• PhD positions in Norway (11)
• PhD positions in South Korea (4)

Search results (24)

PhD in Advanced hybridization of metaheuristics and constraint programming techniques for the integration of energy constraints in assembly line balancing problems

Location : Laboratory of Informatics, Modelling and Optimization of the Systems (LIMOS UMR CNRS 6158) – Campus des Cézeaux – 1 rue de la Cherbade, 63178 AubièreSupervision : Laurent Deroussi (LIMOS, co-supervisor) Nathalie Grangeon (LIMOS, co-supe...

Three-year PhD position in Physics (Photonics, Optoelectronics, Material Science): Giant interband transition nanostructures - optical and optoelectronic properties and application in photodetection

RESEARCHER PROFILE: PhD/ R1: First stage Researcher                  RESEARCH FIELD(S)1: PhysicsMAIN SUB RESEARCH FIELD OR DISCIPLINES1: EngineeringJOB /OFFER DESCRIPTION: Giant interband transition nanostructures, which are based on semiconductor...

Three-year PhD position in Development of interactive expert software stratifying the risk of lung cancer diagnosis in the setting of lung cancer screening based on mathematical modeling and machine learning approaches (funded by A*Midex)

RESEARCHER PROFILE: PhD/ R1: First stage Researcher             RESEARCH FIELD(S)1: Mathematics / Computer science / EngineeringMAIN SUB RESEARCH FIELD OR DISCIPLINES1: Medical sciences, Information sciences, Psychological sciencesJOB /OFFER DESCR...

Hollow-fiber membrane contactors for CO2 capture: design of a hydrodynamically optimized process

Offer DescriptionGeneral contextIncreasing emissions of greenhouse gases, of which carbon dioxide (CO2 ) accounts for around 65% (Bains, P. in 2017), contribute massively to global warming. In order to limit these emissions, it is necessary to cap...

Three-year PhD position in “Advancing Instrumentation for Conventional Electron Spin Resonance in the Realm of Quantum Technologies” (funded by Amidex)

Electron Spin Resonance (ESR) is a powerful spectroscopic technique used to study the magnetic properties of materials with unpaired electrons.

Call for candidates for 4 PhD & 4 Post-docs positions

RESEARCHER PROFILE:PhD/ R1: First stage Researcher                 Postdoc / R2: PhD holders RESEARCH FIELD(S)1: EngineeringMAIN SUB RESEARCH FIELD OR DISCIPLINES1: Computational fluid dynamics, aeronautics, combustionTYPE OF CONTRACT: TEMPORARY /...

Three-year PhD position in Physics (funded by A*Midex)

RESEARCHER PROFILE: PhD/ R1: First stage Researcher                         RESEARCH FIELD(S)1: PhysicsMAIN SUB RESEARCH FIELD OR DISCIPLINES1: Condensed matter physics, NanoscienceJOB /OFFER DESCRIPTION Spintronics aims at changing the standard i...

PhD : Understanding and predicting seagrass decline in lagoonal environment with a modelling approach (M/F)

Deadline: 1 August, 2024.The PhD student will be based mainly in the DHYSED laboratory of Ifremer's DYNECO unit and will also interact with the LEBCO laboratory of the same unit.The aim of the DYNECO unit is to study the response of coastal ecosys...

PhD position - Interactive data collection during the tour of a Travelling salesman drone on convex neighborhoods of buried sensor nodes

Supervisors:Fatiha Bendali, Jean Mailfert 1, Christophe Cariou, Laure Moiroux-Arvis 2, Juan José Salazar González 3.TopicThe automated monitoring of agricultural fields is increasingly using underground wireless sensors designed to collect local v...

PhD Position F/M 15 PhDs on Tensor Modelling, Geometry and Optimisation

Contract type : Fixed-term contractLevel of qualifications required : Graduate degree or equivalentOther valued qualifications : Master or equivalentFonction : PhD PositionLevel of experience : From 3 to 5 yearsAbout the research centre or Inria d...

Three-year PhD position in Modeling human homeostatic capability: Multivariate analysis of cardiorespiratory and metabolic exercise tests for health assessment (Funded by Amidex)

RESEARCHER PROFILE: PhD/ R1: First stage Researcher                  RESEARCH FIELD(S)1: Computer ScienceMAIN SUB RESEARCH FIELD OR DISCIPLINES1: MedicineJOB /OFFER DESCRIPTION Context and PositioningHomeostasis is the process by which living orga...

Doctoral Positions in Management in various areas of specialisation, with five-year funding for all admitted PhD candidates

INSEAD, one of the world's leading and most diverse business schools, is renowned for its commitment to producing leaders who positively impact society. With campuses in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, INSEAD offers its students an unparalleled...

PhD on Study of reactions between VOCs present in work atmospheres and ozone

Offer DescriptionContextThe COVID crisis has led to the marketing of a large number of air purifiers combining different treatment processes such as filtration, adsorption, cold plasmas ... either for their bactericidal effect or to remove VOCs. T...

PhD position in Simulation and analysis of 3D microstructures by Minkowski functionals and deep learning – 36-month fixed-term contract (2)

Description de l'offre d'emploiJOB ENVIRONMENT:Institut Mines-Télécom is the leading public group of engineering and management Grandes Écoles in France. Consisting of eight public graduate Grandes Écoles and two subsidiary graduate schools, Insti...

PhD Opportunity: “Performance Management Systems and Entrepreneurs’ Health”

University: University of MontpellierResearch Unit: Montpellier Research in Management (MRM)Thesis Supervisors: Olivier TORRES, Chaffik BAKKALIFunding Period: October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2027Thesis Start Date: October 1, 2024Application Dead...

PhD Thesis Student on ID14 LECOR

The European Synchrotron, the ESRF, is an international research centre based in Grenoble, France.Through its innovative engineering, pioneering scientific vision and a strong commitment from its 700 staff members, the ESRF is recognised as one of...

PhD thesis: Motion and packing of dendrites during solidification – modeling and scale bridging

Offer DescriptionBackgroundMetallic materials are composed of crystal microstructures and their mechanical properties depend on the size, morphology, and chemical composition of these microstructures. In manufacturing of virtually all metal produc...

PhD on Experimental and Theoretical Study of Biofuel Oxidation through Photoelectron Spectroscopy Combined with Synchrotron Radiation and Quantum Chemistry Calculations

Offer DescriptionContext Lignocellulosic biomass is recognized as a sustainable and renewable energy source. However, the impact of biofuels on pollutant emissions remains unclear, whether they're used as additives or direct substitutes for conven...

PhD fellowship. Neural basis of human face recognition

Offer DescriptionNeural basis of human face recognitionHuman Face Recognition, Visual Semantics. Human intracerebral and EEG recordings, Direct Electrical stimulation, Neuropsychology.Starting date: September 2024We are recruiting a PhD candidate ...

3-year PhD position for the development of coherent Stokes Raman scattering (CSRS) microscopy in Marseille from December 2024

RESEARCHER PROFILE: PhD / R1: First stage Researcher                 RESEARCH FIELD(S): Physical Sciences, Physics MAIN SUB RESEARCH FIELD OR DISCIPLINES1: Optics/SpectroscopyJOB /OFFER DESCRIPTION This thesis will take place at the Fresnel Instit...

3-year doctoral position in bioinformatics: Prediction of bacterial operons dedicated to glycan breakdown in marine Gammaproteobacteria for the discovery of novel CAZyme families (Funded by A*Midex)

RESEARCHER PROFILE: PhD/ R1: First stage Researcher                  RESEARCH FIELD(S) AND DISCIPLINES1: BioinformaticsJOB /OFFER DESCRIPTION:Host Institute/GroupThe candidate will join the Glycogenomics group, created by Bernard Henrissat in 1998...

Metal-Complexing Peptides-based Hydrogels for Preventing and Treating Oxidation

KEYWORDSHydrolysate, Peptide, Metal Complexation, Bacteria siderophore, HydrogelSUBJECT DETAILSThe PLASTER project aims to biosynthesize metal-complexing peptides-based hydrogels for preventing and treating oxidation and will be a fruitful collabo...

PhD student in Mathematics, specifically holomorphic dynamics: three-year position (funded by A*Midex)

RESEARCHER PROFILE: PhD/ R1: First stage Researcher                  RESEARCH FIELD(S)1: MathematicsMAIN SUB RESEARCH FIELD OR DISCIPLINES1: Dynamical systems, holomorphic dynamicsJOB /OFFER DESCRIPTION This PhD position is part of a research team...

Ph.D. Position in Impact Investing

Lille Economics and Management (LEM UMR CNRS 9221) and IÉSEG School of Management invite applications for a fully funded Ph.D. Position in Impact Investing at its Lille Campus. PROJECT DESCRIPTIONFacing contemporary social and environmental issues...

Jobs by field

• Electrical Engineering 177
• Machine Learning 156
• Programming Languages 150
• Artificial Intelligence 140
• Molecular Biology 136
• Mechanical Engineering 133
• Cell Biology 127
• Electronics 114
• Materials Engineering 111
• Materials Chemistry 107

Jobs by type

• Postdoc 350
• Assistant / Associate Professor 139
• Research assistant 111
• Researcher 104
• Professor 103
• Engineer 84
• Lecturer / Senior Lecturer 69
• Management / Leadership 44
• Tenure Track 39

Jobs by country

• Belgium 318
• Netherlands 163
• Switzerland 125
• Morocco 120
• Luxembourg 63

Jobs by employer

• KU Leuven 122
• Mohammed VI Polytechnic Unive... 120
• Ghent University 81
• ETH Zürich 69
• KTH Royal Institute of Techno... 64
• University of Luxembourg 62
• University of Twente 49
• Eindhoven University of Techn... 47
• Karolinska Institutet 39

This website uses cookies