PhD Scholarships at University of Western Brittany / Université de Bretagne Occidentale (UBO)

Overview

🏛️ Institution acronym	UBO
🏷️ Institution name (original)	PhD Scholarships at University of Western Brittany
🌐 Institution name (English)	Université de Bretagne Occidentale
🌍 Country	France
🎓 Fields of study	Biology, Biotechnology, Environmental Sciences, Earth science, Sustainable development, Water and climate, Plant breeding
💶 Monthly stipend	1750 EUR/month
🔗 Official website	https://www.univ-brest.fr/en
📫 Contacts	For inquiries about PhD scholarships, reach out to the Doctoral College at [email protected] or call +33 (0)2 98 01 60 00. Physical Address: Université de Bretagne Occidentale 3 Rue des Archives 29238 Brest Cedex 3 France

Apply for Scholarship

The University of Western Brittany (UBO) offers PhD scholarships for international students in various fields, including marine sciences, environmental sciences, biology, and biotechnology. UBO is a leading French university located in Brest, Brittany, with strong research ties to the European Institute for Marine Studies (IUEM). PhD candidates benefit from a dynamic research environment, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Scholarships typically cover tuition fees and provide a monthly stipend of around €1,600 (approx. $1,750 USD). Applicants must hold a Master’s degree and secure a supervisor before applying. The application process involves submitting a research proposal and academic transcripts. UBO welcomes applications from non-EU students and offers support for visa and accommodation.

International PhD Opportunities at UBO

The University of Western Brittany (UBO) provides fully-funded PhD scholarships for outstanding international students. With a focus on marine and environmental sciences, UBO offers a collaborative research environment and access to unique coastal research facilities.

Fields of Study

UBO's PhD programs cover a wide range of disciplines, with particular strength in marine and environmental sciences. The following fields are available for scholarship applicants:

Biology

Research in marine biology, ecology, and evolutionary biology, conducted at the European Institute for Marine Studies (IUEM) and other labs.

Biotechnology

Focus on marine biotechnology, including bioactive compounds from marine organisms and bioprocess engineering.

Environmental Sciences

Interdisciplinary studies on coastal and marine environments, climate change impacts, and ecosystem management.

Earth Science

Geosciences, oceanography, and sedimentology, with access to research vessels and oceanographic equipment.

Sustainable Development

Research on sustainable coastal development, marine spatial planning, and environmental policy.

Water and Climate

Hydrology, marine climate dynamics, and the study of ocean-atmosphere interactions.

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UBO's PhD scholarships cover a broad spectrum of fields, with a strong emphasis on marine and environmental research. Students work in internationally recognized laboratories and benefit from collaborations with institutions worldwide.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a PhD scholarship at UBO, applicants must meet the following specific requirements. These criteria are based on UBO's official admission policies for international students.

Academic Qualifications

Applicants must hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field with a strong academic record. The degree should be recognized by French higher education authorities.

Supervisor Agreement

Before applying, candidates must secure a written agreement from a UBO professor who will serve as their PhD supervisor. The supervisor must confirm availability of research funding and facilities.

Research Proposal

A detailed research proposal (3-5 pages) aligned with the supervisor's research area is required. The proposal should outline objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.

Transcripts and Diplomas

Certified copies of academic transcripts and diplomas from all previous higher education institutions must be submitted. Translations into French or English may be required.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation from academic referees who can attest to the applicant's research potential and academic abilities.

PhD Monthly Stipend

UBO PhD scholarship recipients receive a monthly stipend of approximately €1,600 (about $1,750 USD) for a period of 36 months. This stipend is intended to cover living expenses in Brest. Additional funding for research costs is available through the host laboratory.

Annual Research Budget

PhD students at UBO typically have access to an annual research budget of €5,000-€10,000 from their host laboratory or research project. This covers equipment, fieldwork, conference travel, and publication costs. Specific amounts depend on the research group and funding source.

Application Process for PhD Scholarships at UBO

The application process is managed by UBO's Doctoral College. International applicants must follow the steps below. All documents must be submitted in French or English.

Identify a Supervisor: Search UBO's research labs and faculty profiles to find a potential supervisor whose research aligns with your interests. Contact them with a brief CV and research idea. Obtain a written agreement before proceeding.
Prepare Application Documents: Gather required documents: Master's degree certificate, academic transcripts, research proposal (3-5 pages), CV, two recommendation letters, and a copy of your passport. Ensure translations are certified if needed.
Submit Online Application: Complete the online application form on UBO's doctoral admissions portal: UBO PhD Admissions. Upload all documents and enter your supervisor's details.
Application Review: The Doctoral College reviews applications for completeness and academic merit. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview with the supervisor and doctoral school committee.
Receive Admission Decision: Successful applicants receive an official admission letter and scholarship offer. The decision is usually communicated within 2-3 months after the deadline.
Apply for Visa: Non-EU students must apply for a long-stay student visa at the French consulate in their home country. UBO's International Office provides support and documentation for the visa process.

For inquiries, contact UBO's Doctoral College at [email protected] or call +33 (0)2 98 01 60 00. Deadlines vary by doctoral school; check the official website for current calls. Early application is recommended.

Application Deadlines

PhD scholarship deadlines at UBO vary by doctoral school and research project. Typically, applications are accepted in two main cycles: spring (March-April) and fall (September-October). Some positions are advertised year-round. Check the official UBO PhD vacancies page for specific deadlines: Current PhD Offers.

University of Western Brittany Official Website

For more information, please visit the official website: PhD Scholarships at University of Western Brittany / Université de Bretagne Occidentale (UBO)

Contact Information for PhD Admissions and Inquiries

For inquiries about PhD scholarships, reach out to the Doctoral College at [email protected] or call +33 (0)2 98 01 60 00.

Physical Address:
Université de Bretagne Occidentale
3 Rue des Archives
29238 Brest Cedex 3
France

Additional Information for International Applicants

International Student Services

UBO's International Office provides comprehensive support for international PhD students, including assistance with visa applications, accommodation, and integration. The office organizes welcome events and language courses. Visit the International Office page for more details.

Career Prospects

Graduates from UBO's PhD programs are well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutes, and the private sector. The university's strong ties with marine and environmental industries offer networking opportunities. Alumni have found positions at institutions like Ifremer, CNRS, and international organizations.

Resource Links

PhD scholarship programs and External Funding Opportunities for PhD Scholarships in Agriculture

Eiffel Excellence Scholarship Program

Funded by the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, the Eiffel program provides monthly allowances and travel expenses for international PhD students. Candidates must be nominated by UBO. More information

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Individual Fellowships and Innovative Training Networks offer funding for PhD researchers in all fields, including marine and environmental sciences. Visit MSCA website

Regional Council of Brittany Scholarships

The Brittany region offers co-funding for international PhD students in strategic research areas.

University Location