PhD Scholarships at Agricultural Institute of Slovenia

The Agricultural Institute of Slovenia (KIS) offers exciting opportunities for PhD scholarships through its Young Researchers program, funded by the Slovenian Research Agency (ARRS). As a leading research institution in agriculture, KIS welcomes international students to engage in cutting-edge research in fields like crop production, animal husbandry, and environmental sustainability. Foreign applicants can apply for these fully funded positions, which include a monthly stipend and research support. The program emphasizes global collaboration, allowing non-EU students to contribute to innovative projects while pursuing their doctorate in partnership with Slovenian universities such as the University of Ljubljana or University of Maribor. Requirements include a master’s degree and strong research potential. With a focus on international accessibility, KIS provides guidance on visa processes and integration for foreign scholars. This scholarship enables global talents to advance agricultural sciences in a dynamic European setting, fostering cross-cultural exchanges and impactful research outcomes.

Introduction to PhD Opportunities

Join a vibrant research community focused on agricultural innovation, with scholarships open to international applicants for global impact.

Fields of Study

PhD scholarships cover specialized areas in agriculture, emphasizing sustainable practices and innovation. International students can explore these fields through collaborative research.

Agricultural Sciences

Focus on crop production, soil management, and sustainable farming systems, with opportunities for foreign students to engage in EU-funded projects.

Animal Sciences

Research in livestock breeding, nutrition, and welfare, accessible to global applicants interested in advancing animal husbandry techniques.

Environmental Sciences

Studies on biodiversity, climate impact, and eco-friendly agriculture, welcoming international perspectives on global environmental challenges.

Food Sciences

Exploration of food processing, quality control, and safety, with programs open to non-EU students for innovative food technology research.

Plant Sciences

Investigations into plant physiology, pathology, and genetics, providing platforms for foreign scholars to contribute to crop improvement.

Plant Breeding

Dedicated programs in classical breeding, including field trials for hops, potatoes, and cereals. The institute releases new varieties and offers PhD positions for international students in genetic improvement and variety development.

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These fields align with global agricultural needs, offering funded PhD paths for international talent.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for PhD scholarships focuses on academic excellence and research aptitude. International candidates must hold a relevant master's degree and be under 28 years old (with extensions for certain circumstances). The program is accessible globally, with no nationality restrictions.

Academic Qualifications

Applicants must have completed a master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field. Foreign degrees require recognition by the Slovenian authorities. Strong academic records, including GPA above 8.0 on the Slovenian scale, are preferred.

Age Limit

Candidates should not be older than 28 at the time of application, with possible extensions for military service, parenthood, or illness. This applies to all applicants, including internationals.

Research Experience

Prior research involvement, such as publications or projects, strengthens applications. International students should highlight any relevant experience to demonstrate fit with institute projects.

Monthly Grant Details

Successful candidates receive a monthly stipend of approximately 1,100 EUR (about 1,200 USD), covering living expenses during the 4-year PhD period. This funding supports international students in Slovenia without additional employment requirements.

Annual Research Funding

In addition to the stipend, an annual budget of up to 5,000 EUR is allocated for research expenses, including equipment, materials, travel to conferences, and fieldwork. This supports global collaboration and project needs.

Application Process for PhD Scholarships at Agricultural Institute of Slovenia

Applying for PhD scholarships through the Young Researchers program involves collaboration with mentors and submission via the ARRS portal. International students are encouraged to apply, with support for visa and residency requirements. The process ensures global accessibility, requiring a master's degree and alignment with ongoing research projects.

Identify a Mentor and Research Topic: Browse available mentors and research areas on the official website. Contact potential supervisors via email to discuss your interests and obtain their agreement to supervise. This step is crucial for international applicants to ensure project alignment. Find mentor lists at Young Researchers page.
Prepare Required Documents: Gather your CV, master's diploma, transcripts, and a motivation letter. Foreign students must include proof of degree equivalency if from non-EU institutions. All documents should be in English or Slovenian. Detailed requirements are available on the ARRS website, but institute-specific info is at Education section.
Submit Application via ARRS Portal: Complete the online application on the ARRS e-portal, including mentor endorsement. International applicants should note any additional forms for non-residents. The portal opens during the annual call period. Access the portal at ARRS site, with institute guidance provided.
Undergo Evaluation and Interview: Applications are reviewed by ARRS and the institute. Shortlisted candidates participate in interviews, which can be virtual for international applicants. Focus on research potential and fit with the program.

After submission, monitor your application status via the ARRS portal. For inquiries, contact [email protected] or call +386 1 280 51 00. Deadlines typically fall in March for the following academic year; check the official site for updates.

Application Deadlines

The annual call for Young Researchers applications opens in January and closes in March for positions starting in October. For 2025, the deadline is March 15, 2025, based on the latest ARRS announcement. International students should apply early to allow time for visa processing. Always verify current dates on the official ARRS website at ARRS Young Researchers or the institute's page.

Official Website

For more information, please visit the official website: PhD Scholarships at Agricultural Institute of Slovenia

Contact Information for PhD Admissions and Inquiries

For inquiries about PhD scholarships, reach out to Agricultural Institute of Slovenia via email at [email protected] or call +386 1 280 51 00.

Physical Address:
Hacquetova ulica 17
1000 Ljubljana
Slovenia

Additional Information

International Student Services

The institute provides visa assistance, housing guidance, and orientation for foreign PhD students. International offices at partner universities offer language courses and cultural integration programs.

Career Prospects

Graduates secure roles in research, academia, and agribusiness globally. The program builds networks for international careers in sustainable agriculture.

Resource Links

Explore research projects at Research page. For visa info, visit Slovenian Government site. Additional funding options at ARRS.

PhD scholarship programs and External Funding Opportunities for PhD Scholarships in Agriculture Agricultural Institute of Slovenia

Young Researchers Program

This core program funds PhD positions in agriculture research. Eligibility: Master's degree holders under 28. Funding: Monthly stipend of 1,100 EUR plus research budget. Deadline: March 15 annually. Contact: [email protected]. Apply via ARRS portal.

Erasmus+ Mobility Grants

External funding for international PhD exchanges in agriculture. Eligibility: Enrolled PhD students from partner institutions. Funding: Up to 800 EUR/month. Deadline: Varies by call. More at Erasmus+ site.

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

EU-funded fellowships for global PhD researchers in agriculture. Eligibility: All nationalities with research experience. Funding: 3,400 EUR/month plus allowances. Deadline: September annually. Details via MSCA portal.

Focus on innovative training networks
Supports international mobility