PhD Opportunities with EDICT

Overview

EDICT (Advancing Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in Clinical Trials) is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network funded by the European Union's Horizon Europe programme. We are recruiting 16 fully-funded PhD researchers for projects across 7 European countries, working on innovative projects that will help shape the future of more inclusive and equitable clinical trials. Doctoral candidates will be enrolled in leading European universities and benefit from international secondments with academic, industry, and non-profit partners.

Who Can Apply

All applicants must meet the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) eligibility criteria and the requirements of their chosen project and host institution.

Mobility Rule: At the time of recruitment, applicants must not have lived or carried out their main activity (work, study, etc.) in the country of the recruiting institution for more than 12 months in the previous 36 months.

Academic Requirements: Candidates must hold a degree that formally qualifies them to embark on a doctorate. Requirements vary by position but typically include:

• A Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
• A strong academic record, typically at least a 2.1 honours degree (or international equivalent) at undergraduate level
• Project-specific requirements, which are detailed in the individual project descriptions

Language Requirements: Excellent written and spoken English is required for all positions.

Doctoral Degree: Candidates must not hold or have been awarded a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment.

What We Offer

As an EDICT doctoral candidate, you will receive:

• Competitive Salary: A living allowance in accordance with MSCA rates (€4,010/month, gross), adjusted by country
• Mobility Allowance: A mobility allowance to support relocation costs
• Family Allowance: Additional support for researchers with family responsibilities
• Research Budget: Dedicated funding for research activities, conferences, and training
• International Secondments: 3 months at partner organisations
• Network Training: Access to joint training events, summer schools, and workshops with all 16 doctoral candidates
• Career Development: Transferable skills training and mentorship from world-leading researchers

How to Apply

Applications will open 2nd March 2026 for positions starting in September 2026. The application process will include:

1. Online Application: Candidates submit one central online application and may apply to up to five projects, ranked in order of preference (link will be available when applications open)
2. Your application will include:
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • Motivation statement explaining your interest in EDICT, your motivation for the selected project(s), and your relevant skills and experience
   • Academic transcripts from undergraduate and postgraduate studies
   • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
   • Two academic references are requested at the interview stage
3. Shortlisting: Applications will be reviewed by the selection committee
4. Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online interviews
5. Offers: Successful candidates will receive formal offers with contract details

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Academic Excellence: Quality of academic record and relevant qualifications
• Research Experience and Potential: Evidence of research skills, critical thinking, and scientific curiosity
• Motivation and Project Fit: Clear articulation of interest in the project and commitment to EDI in clinical trials
• Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken English
• International Training: Readiness for international and intersectoral training

EDICT is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, both in our research and in our recruitment. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and ensure that selection decisions are based on merit, transparency, and fairness.

Questions?

If you have questions about the application process, please contact us:

Email: edict@universityofgalway.ie

For questions about specific projects, please contact the relevant project supervisor.