~ Utrecht University PhD Scholarship ~
Utrecht University is now accepting applications from suitably qualified students for its Utrecht University PhD Scholarship. It is a fully funded scholarship for all students.
About Utrecht University
Founded in 1636 and located in the heart of the Netherlands, Utrecht University is one of Europe’s leading research universities.
We are recognised internationally for our high-quality, innovative approach to research and teaching. As an international student, you’ll be in good company at Utrecht University.
Every year, approximately 1,500 international students come to the university to take English-taught degree programmes and other courses.
Aim and Benefits of Utrecht University PhD Scholarship
The Utrecht University will provide the selected candidates with a monthly gross salary for four years, starting at €2,443 in the first year and €3,122 in the fourth year of employment.
In addition, the students will also be awarded an 8% holiday bonus, an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and a pension scheme with partially paid parental leave.
Requirements for Utrecht University PhD Scholarship
To be eligible, the applicants must meet all the following/given criteria:
1. Affinity with numerical modelling.
2. Prior knowledge/experience in handling large-scale (hydrological) datasets.
3. The ability to work in a team.
4. You have an interest in global water and sustainability challenges and are enthusiastic about working with global datasets and models.
You are a team player and will be part of a multidisciplinary team with the larger SOS-WATER project and supported locally by scientific and technical support staff.
Together with the team, you will work on making large-scale hydrological models available at fine resolutions to be implemented in local assessments while still benefiting from the global applicability.
Your focus will be on improving the existing PCR-GLOBWB model that is developed in Utrecht and, together with our partners in Europe, provide high-resolution water simulations that include dynamic human water interactions (e.g., abstraction for irrigation, industry, households).
Application Deadline
June 30, 2026
FAQs
1. Does Utrecht University offer fully funded PhD scholarships for 2026?
Yes. Utrecht University offers funded PhD positions for the 2026 academic year. Most PhD opportunities are advertised as paid research positions, meaning successful candidates receive a monthly salary, health insurance, pension benefits, and research support, rather than a traditional tuition-only scholarship.
2. Who is eligible to apply for Utrecht University PhD Scholarships 2026?
Applicants must hold a relevant Master’s degree, have a strong academic background, and demonstrate research potential in their chosen field. Additional requirements may include prior research experience, publications, and English language proficiency. Eligibility criteria can vary depending on the department and PhD project.
3. How do I apply for a PhD scholarship at Utrecht University?
Applications are submitted online through Utrecht University’s official vacancies portal. Candidates must apply to specific PhD projects, as there is no general PhD scholarship form. Required documents typically include a CV, motivation letter, research proposal (if required), academic transcripts, and references.
4. When is the application deadline for Utrecht University PhD Scholarships 2026?
There is no single deadline for all PhD scholarships at Utrecht University. PhD vacancies are posted throughout the year, with deadlines depending on each project. Applicants are advised to regularly check the university’s PhD vacancies page and apply early to avoid missing opportunities.