If you’re searching for fully funded PhD opportunities in Europe, the latest call from Aix-Marseille Université offers one of the most competitive doctoral programs in France. The SCHADOC doctoral program has opened applications for 15 PhD positions, designed for international early-stage researchers seeking advanced interdisciplinary training in a globally connected academic environment. This opportunity is not just a PhD—it’s a career-building research experience backed by Horizon Europe funding.

The SCHADOC PhD program is more than just funding—it is a career accelerator within the European research ecosystem. With strong financial support, structured training, and global exposure, it represents one of the best PhD opportunities in France for 2026. With 15 PhD positions currently open, this program stands out for its generous funding, structured training, and global research collaborations—making it ideal for candidates targeting long-term academic or industry careers in Europe.

Overview of the SCHADOC PhD Program

The SCHADOC initiative is a COFUND doctoral program supported by Horizon Europe and regional funding bodies, aiming to train the next generation of researchers through a unique model focused on:

• Interdisciplinarity
• International mobility
• Intersectoral collaboration

A total of 40 PhD fellows will be recruited across two calls (2025–2026), with 15 positions currently open under the top-down project-based scheme.

Research Areas Available

The program spans high-demand, high-impact research domains:

• Climate Change & Environmental Challenges
• Health & Well-being
• Artificial Intelligence & Applications
• Societies & Culture (excluded in this specific call)

These fields are strategically aligned with future global research funding trends, making this a strong long-term academic investment.

Funding & Salary (Fully Funded Details)

Each selected PhD candidate will receive:

• Gross salary: approx. €3,524/month
• Net salary: approx. €2,100+
• Family allowance: additional €379/month (if applicable)
• Research & mobility budget: €23,400 total
• Duration: 36 months (3 years)

This makes SCHADOC one of the highest-paying PhD programs in France, especially for international researchers.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, candidates must:

• Be an early-stage researcher (no PhD yet)
• Have less than 4 years of research experience
• Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent)
• Demonstrate English proficiency (minimum B1 level)
• Not have lived/worked in France for more than 12 months in the last 3 years

This mobility rule is typical for Marie Skłodowska-Curie funded programs.

Unique Benefits of This PhD Program

1. No Supervisor Required Initially

You can apply without securing a supervisor first—the program helps match you with one.

2. International Exposure

Collaborations across European universities and industry partners.

3. Career-Focused Training

Includes:

• Research skills
• Industry exposure
• Transferable skills (communication, innovation)

4. Strong Academic Ecosystem

Based in Marseille & Aix-en-Provence, two major research hubs in southern France.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step):

1. Prepare your research proposal
2. Gather required documents:
   • CV
   • Academic transcripts
   • Motivation letter
3. Submit application via official portal
4. Wait for eligibility screening
5. Match with supervisor (if shortlisted)
6. To apply for one or more projects, follow the APPLY link. The documents required to apply are presented in the guide for applicants . The last call is now open !

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Is the SCHADOC PhD fully funded?

Yes, it includes salary, research funding, and mobility allowance.

2. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?

Not strictly required; B1 English level proof is sufficient in most cases.

3. Can international students apply?

Yes, the program is open worldwide and encourages global applicants.

4. Is prior research experience mandatory?

Yes, but limited to less than 4 years as an early-stage researcher.

5. Can I apply without a research proposal?

Only for the top-down call. The bottom-up call requires a proposal.

6. What is the duration of the PhD?

The program runs for 36 months (3 years).

7. Where will I study?

At Aix-Marseille Université in southern France.

8. Is relocation support provided?

Yes, including guidance on visas, housing, and settling in France.