Ghent University, through its Special Research Fund (BOF), invites applications for PhD “sandwich” scholarships. These scholarships support talented PhD students from the Global South, enabling them to conduct part of their research at Ghent University (“North”) and part at a partner university in the Global South (“South”).
The scholarship funds 24 months of research at Ghent University. Applicants must secure funding for the remaining 24 months of research at the partner university in the South.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, candidates must:
- Be nationals of one of the Global South countries (see [Country List 2025]).
- Submit their proposals jointly with:
- A Ghent University supervisor (promoter).
- A supervisor from the partner university in the South.
- Pursue a PhD degree at Ghent University (joint degrees are allowed). Exchange students are not eligible.
- Be at the beginning of their PhD; applicants must have at least 36 months of doctoral research remaining as of October 1, 2025.
- Ensure the research topic aligns with the North-South context, though all fields are welcome.
- Note: Supervisors may support up to two candidates of different genders per call, encouraging female researcher participation.
Co-Funding Requirements
The partner university in the South must:
- Appoint a local PhD supervisor.
- Provide a written statement confirming the candidate will:
- Receive a full-time scholarship or salary for 24 months.
- Have sufficient time to focus on PhD research (maximum 10% dedicated to other tasks).
Mandatory Mobility Scheme
Applicants must adhere to the following research stay schedule:
- Start and end their PhD research with a 3–12 month stay at Ghent University.
- The first research stay at Ghent University must begin between October 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026.
- Conduct 24 months of funded research in the South between these stays.
Exceptions to the Mobility Scheme
Applicants may request exceptions for:
- PhD study program requirements at the partner university.
- Mandatory field research in the South.
- Prior funded PhD research (up to 12 months) at either Ghent University or the partner university.
To request exceptions, applicants must submit the “Request Exception Funding and Mobility Scheme” form to BOF@ugent.be by January 17, 2025.
Scholarship Benefits
- PhD Scholarship: 24 months at Ghent University.
- Bench Fee: €310/month during the research stay in Ghent.
- Travel Budget: €8,000 for operational and travel costs.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted in English to BOFapplication@ugent.be by February 19, 2025.
Documents required:
- Completed [Application Form 2025].
- Supervisor’s advice on:
- The candidate’s potential as a researcher.
- Ethical and biosafety considerations of the research project.
Important Dates
- Deadline for Applications: February 19, 2025.
- Selection Results: Announced online from May 21, 2025.
Contact
Special Research Fund (BOF)
Email: BOF@UGent.be
For more details, visit:
Start your journey towards impactful research by connecting with Ghent University professors via our [Research Directory].
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