Required Documents
-
Online Application Form
Includes sections on personal information, academic history, and English language proficiency.
-
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Preferably in EUROPASS format.
-
Cover Letter
Detailing motivation for pursuing a PhD, interest in the selected Doctoral Candidate (DC) project(s), and relevant skills and qualities.
-
References
Contact details for at least two referees.
-
Academic Credentials
Copy of the latest relevant diploma and proof of current enrollment if still studying.
-
English Proficiency Proof
Evidence of upper-intermediate level English (see eligibility criteria).
-
MSCA Mobility Rule Declaration
A signed declaration confirming compliance with the MSCA mobility rule.
-
Identification
Copy of a valid identity card or passport.
Eligibility Criteria
-
MSCA Mobility Rule
Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the host organization for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment date. This will be verified against CV records.
-
Academic Qualifications
Candidates should possess or be in the process of completing a master's degree or equivalent that qualifies them to embark on a doctorate.
-
Availability
Applicants must be available to commence employment at or near the PhD project's start date.
-
English Proficiency
Candidates must demonstrate an upper-intermediate level of English through a recognized international qualification. Native English speakers or those with degrees conducted entirely in English are exempt from this requirement.
If the applicant is unable to provide proof, an English test (free of charge) will be requested.
-
Doctoral School Requirements
Specific prerequisites such as grades or experience may apply and will be detailed in the job advertisement.
-
Complete Application
Only complete applications submitted through the ESRF recruitment web portal will be considered.
Understanding the MSCA COFUND Mobility Rule
Recruited researchers can be of any nationality and must comply with the following mobility rule: they must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc) in the country of the recruiting beneficiary or implementing partner for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the post application deadline.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Gender Balance
Efforts will be made to ensure fair gender representation among supervisors and doctoral fellows.
Non-Discrimination
The selection process will adhere to policies that prevent discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, nationality, or disability, in line with EC recommendations.
Gender Equality Plans
All partner institutions have established Gender Equality Plans (GEPs).
Eligibility check, evaluation and selection workflow of candidates
Automatic Confirmation
Upon submitting the application through the ESRF recruitment portal, candidates will receive an automatic confirmation email.
Screening by Recruitment Team
Applications are reviewed to confirm eligibility based on predefined criteria. Non-eligible applicants will be promptly notified by email.
Review by Recruitment Advisory Board (RAB)
Eligible applications are evaluated by three RAB members, who score candidates using established selection criteria.
Invitation Sent via e-mail
Selected candidates (2-4 per position) will be invited to a video conference interview. Those not selected for an interview will receive their application scores by email. Referees for interviewees will be contacted to provide evaluations using a simple scoring form.
Video Interviews
Candidates will participate in one-hour interviews via video conferencing. The Interview Panel will score candidates based on predefined criteria.
Ranking by Management Team
Candidates’ scores from written applications, interviews, and referee evaluations will be combined, and final rankings will be determined.
Outcome Notification
All interviewed candidates will be informed of the selection results and overall grading approximately 12 weeks after the application deadline.
Appeal Process
Unsuccessful candidates have seven days to submit a formal appeal. The Appeals Board will review the request and notify the candidate of the decision.
Recruitment Team Support
Throughout the process, the Recruitment Team will provide status updates and serve as a helpdesk for candidate inquiries, ensuring transparency and assistance at each stage.