According to Prof. Richard van Wezel, Coordinator of NeurotechEU, the Doctoral Network addresses a growing need for international connection among PhD candidates. “It gives PhD students the opportunity to engage with all the other universities in the alliance,” he explains. “That European perspective is crucial at an early stage of an academic or professional career.”

Complementing existing PhD programmes across alliance

The Doctoral Network does not replace existing PhD programmes. Instead, it complements them through targeted courses, events, and networking opportunities. What distinguishes the NeurotechEU Doctoral Network from many other European training initiatives is its strong focus on ecosystems beyond academia. “NeurotechEU is not just about universities,” says Van Wezel. “Around these institutions, there are rich ecosystems of companies and societal partners. The NeurotechEU Doctoral Network gives PhD candidates a much broader view of what career paths are available both inside and outside academia.” This broader perspective is particularly valuable for doctoral researchers who are internationally oriented but not necessarily part of large European research grants.

Bringing researchers together

By bringing together researchers at an early stage of their careers, the Doctoral Network aims to strengthen long‑term collaboration within NeurotechEU and to support the development of future leaders in neurotechnology. “It’s about building connections that will still matter five or ten years from now,” Van Wezel notes. “For people who want to broaden their horizons and expand their network, this is a very attractive opportunity.” 

Annemiek Barsingerhorn, Graduate School Coordinator at Donders Institute (Radboud University) and coordinator of the NeurotechEU Doctoral Network together with Luka Biedebach (Reykjavik University), emphasizes that the network is designed as a practical addition to existing PhD programmes. “It offers concrete opportunities to expand your international network, explore collaborations and take part in workshops and courses that support your research and professional development,” she says. The preliminary programme includes at least one on-site meeting per year, complemented by online sessions on topics such as navigating your PhD, presenting your research and career development. As Barsingerhorn  adds: “We especially encourage motivated PhD candidates in their first year to apply, so they can grow together as a cohort throughout their doctorate.”

Participation is now open

Participation is open to PhD candidates from all partner institutions, with a limited number of places available at each university. The selection of candidates, including the procedures, criteria and timelines, is the responsibility of each individual partner institution. PhD candidates interested in joining the NeurotechEU Doctoral Network are encouraged to consult the NeurotechEU website for detailed information about the programme, eligibility and upcoming activities. For specific questions, candidates should contact the designated contact person at their own institution, as listed on the NeurotechEU Doctoral Network page.