Candidates
Time
Campus
Trieste, Trondheim
Partners
Our Vision and Mission
Nextstep is a Horizon Europe-funded doctoral training programme aimed at preparing the next generation of researchers to tackle sustainability and innovation challenges. Aligned with the goals of the European Green Deal and the Sustainable Development Goals, Nextstep connects research infrastructures, academia, and industry to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge research.
Become a Nextstep PhD Candidate
We are recruiting 36 outstanding doctoral candidates to join Nextstep, where you will gain access to state-of-the-art research infrastructures and cutting-edge techniques in neutron, X-ray, and electron microscopy. Collaborate with leading experts across Europe and make a real impact on sustainable development and innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must meet the MSCA mobility rule, hold a master’s degree, be available at the programme start, and demonstrate upper-intermediate English proficiency. Discover the details of eligibility criteria on the How to Apply page.
Excellence in Research and Innovation for PhD Fellows
Nextstep offers PhD fellows exclusive access to cutting-edge analytical techniques and the opportunity to apply them in addressing critical challenges across diverse fields.
Pioneering Techniques for Your Research Journey
As a PhD fellow, you'll harness these advanced tools to drive groundbreaking discoveries.
Synchrotron X-rays
Synchrotron X-rays
Unlock high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy for materials science, biology, and chemistry with unmatched precision.
Neutron Scattering
Neutron Scattering
Explore material structures and dynamics, advancing energy storage, catalysis, and other essential applications.
Advanced Electron Microscopy
Advanced Electron Microscopy
Visualize matter at the atomic scale, enabling breakthrough studies in nanotechnology and life sciences.
Focus Areas for Impactful Research
Your work will contribute to solutions in these transformative domains:
Health and Life Sciences
Health and Life Sciences
Enhance diagnostics, drug development, and the understanding of biological processes.
Digital, Industry, and Space
Digital, Industry, and Space
Advance manufacturing, cutting-edge materials, and space exploration.
Climate, Energy, and Mobility
Climate, Energy, and Mobility
Innovate renewable energy systems, sustainable transportation, and environmental technologies.
Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment
Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment
Support sustainable agriculture, improve food security, and protect ecosystems.
Developing Future Innovators
Nextstep is not just about research; it’s about developing the skills you need to become a leader in your field. Our comprehensive training programme includes workshops on innovation, entrepreneurship, scientific communication, and data management, as well as opportunities for interdisciplinary research across Europe’s leading research infrastructures.
Network-Wide Training and Core Skills
Cohort-based events, including webinars, plenaries, and skills workshops, promote interdisciplinary collaboration and address social science topics related to science’s role in society.
Discipline-Specific and New Skill Development
Customized training sessions on advanced techniques, safety protocols, and scientific communication within each host facility, tailored to the DC’s research field and needs.
Research Mobility and Intersectoral Secondments
A minimum two-month secondment at associate partners or industry to broaden experience, develop intersectoral skills, and explore different scientific environments across Europe.
Additional Transferable Skills and Support
Workshops on foreign language, project management, scientific writing, career planning, data analysis, and open science, ensuring DCs gain valuable soft skills for diverse career paths.
Stay Updated on Nextstep
Follow our latest news, upcoming events, and recruitment deadlines. Stay connected with the Nextstep community through conferences, workshops, and regular updates
