MSCA Doctoral Networks: Opportunities for Researchers at the University of Basel
What is an MSCA Doctoral Network?
The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Networks are a key funding initiative under the Horizon Europe program. Their primary goal is to train a new generation of innovative doctoral students. Consortia of academic institutions from at least three Horizon Europe countries (incl. Switzerland) come together with business and socio-economic actors to provide interdisciplinary and international training.
- Collaborative Training: Fund one to two PhD positions in an international Doctoral Network. Students benefit from combined training events and secondments.
- Open Topic: Consortia work together on a research topic of their choice, allowing researchers involved to expand their European network.
- Mobility: Researchers are encouraged to work across borders, sectors, and disciplines, enhancing their skills and networks.
- Training beyond Research: The networks emphasize entrepreneurship, creativity, and the conversion of research into real-world applications, giving PhD students a strong profile for subsequent employment.
RAISE Doctoral Network for AI in Science (Pilot Call)
The 2026 call (HORIZON-RAISE-2026-01-MSCA) is specifically for Doctoral Networks in AI for Science, with an additional budget of €30 million. Projects should:
- Focus on advance AI-driven scientific discovery and doctoral training in AI methodologies applied to scientific research.
- Foster collaboration between academia, industry, and research infrastructures to develop cutting-edge AI tools and frameworks for science.
- Address key societal challenges through AI, such as climate change, health, and sustainable energy.
Who can participate?
- Advanced Researchers from Universities, research institutions, businesses (including SMEs), and other socio-economic actors can lead or join a consortium.
- Consortium Requirements: Proposals must involve at least three independent organizations from at least three different EU Member States or Horizon Europe Associated Countries.
Why should you get involved?
- Successful proposals receive generous funding to cover salaries of the doctoral students as well as for research, training, and networking.
- Enhance Research Impact: Contribute to groundbreaking science while strengthening international and inter-sectoral partnerships.
- Attract Top Talent: Recruit highly motivated doctoral candidates from around the world.
- Boost Institutional Reputation: Participation in MSCA and RAISE networks elevates the profile of your Department and the University of Basel.
Key dates
- Deadline: 24 November 2026
- Evaluation: April 2027 (notification of results)
- Earliest possible project start: September 2027
The Grants Office supports researchers participating in MSCA consortia. Don't hesitate to reach out to us anytime.
Article created with the support of Mistral - Le Chat
