PhD Scholarships at University of Zurich

The University of Zurich (UZH) offers a range of PhD scholarships and funded positions for international students pursuing doctoral studies in various scientific fields. With a strong emphasis on global accessibility, UZH welcomes applicants from all countries, providing opportunities for foreign students to engage in cutting-edge research. PhD candidates typically receive funding through assistantships, grants, or external scholarships, often including a competitive salary and research support. The university’s programs are designed to foster international collaboration, with English as the primary language of instruction in many departments. International students benefit from dedicated support services, including visa assistance and integration programs. UZH’s PhD scholarships cover diverse areas within the sciences, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches. Funding is available through university positions, Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) grants, and other sources, making it an attractive option for global talents seeking advanced research opportunities in Switzerland.

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Monthly Stipend	Eligibility Criteria	Application Process
Deadlines	Contacts	Official Website

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Introduction to PhD Scholarships at University of Zurich

University of Zurich provides excellent opportunities for international students to pursue PhD degrees with scholarships and funded positions. As a leading European university, UZH emphasizes global recruitment, offering English-taught programs and support for non-EU applicants. Funding often comes as salaried positions, enabling foreign students to focus on research without financial burdens. With a vibrant international community, UZH facilitates cross-cultural collaborations in various scientific domains.

Fields of Study

University of Zurich offers PhD programs in several fields relevant to scientific research, with a focus on international accessibility. These programs are open to foreign students and often involve interdisciplinary projects. Below are key areas where PhD scholarships are available, tailored to UZH's research strengths.

Biology

UZH's Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies offers PhD opportunities in biology, focusing on molecular, cellular, and evolutionary aspects. International students can apply for funded positions involving lab work and fieldwork, with emphasis on global biodiversity research.

Environmental Sciences

Through the Department of Geography and Earth System Science, UZH provides PhD scholarships in environmental sciences, addressing climate change, sustainability, and ecosystem dynamics. Foreign applicants benefit from international partnerships and funding for cross-border studies.

Plant Sciences

The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology at UZH supports PhD research in plant sciences, including plant physiology, genetics, and interactions with microbes. Opportunities for international students include collaborative projects with global institutions, funded by university grants.

Biotechnology

UZH's biotechnology PhD programs, often linked to the Life Science Zurich Graduate School, explore applications in health and environment. International candidates are encouraged, with scholarships supporting innovative research in biotech advancements.

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These fields reflect UZH's commitment to advancing knowledge through PhD scholarships, particularly for international students. Funding and positions are competitive, with opportunities for global networking and career development.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for PhD scholarships at University of Zurich requires meeting specific academic and administrative criteria. International students must hold a relevant master's degree and secure a supervisor's agreement prior to formal application. Requirements are outlined on the official UZH website and vary slightly by faculty.

Academic Qualifications

Applicants must possess a master's degree or equivalent from a recognized university, with a strong academic record. For international students, the degree must be comparable to a Swiss master's, often requiring verification through UZH's admissions office. Relevant coursework in the chosen field is essential.

Supervisor Agreement

Before applying, candidates need to contact and obtain agreement from a potential PhD supervisor at UZH. This involves discussing research interests and securing a commitment letter, which is mandatory for the application process.

Visa and Residency Requirements for International Students

Non-EU/EEA students must obtain a student visa. UZH provides support letters for visa applications once admission is granted. Proof of sufficient funds or funding is required, aligning with scholarship provisions.

Funding Confirmation

Applicants must demonstrate funding, either through UZH scholarships, external grants, or self-funding. International students are eligible for university-funded positions, which often cover living expenses.

Monthly Stipend for PhD Students

PhD students at UZH typically receive a monthly salary as research assistants, ranging from CHF 3,900 to 4,200 (approximately USD 4,400 to 4,700), depending on the faculty and funding source. This supports living costs in Zurich for international students.

Annual Research Funding

In addition to salaries, UZH provides annual budgets for research expenses, such as equipment, materials, travel, and conferences, often up to CHF 10,000 per year per student, varying by department. This aids international PhD candidates in conducting fieldwork and attending global events.

Application Process for PhD Scholarships

Applying for PhD scholarships involves securing a supervisor and submitting documents through the official portal. The process is designed for international accessibility, with online submissions and support for non-local applicants.

Identify a Supervisor: Browse faculty profiles and contact potential supervisors via email to discuss your research interests. Obtain a written agreement confirming their willingness to supervise your PhD.
Prepare Application Documents: Gather required documents including CV, academic transcripts, master's degree certificate, motivation letter, and supervisor's agreement. International applicants may need degree equivalency confirmation.
Submit Online Application: Use the online portal to submit your application, uploading all documents. Applications are processed by the respective faculty.
Await Admission Decision: Once submitted, the faculty reviews your application. Successful candidates receive an admission letter, which international students use for visa applications.

For questions, contact the admissions office at [email protected] or +41 44 634 22 36. Deadlines vary by program; check the official site for details.

Application Deadlines

PhD applications at University of Zurich are often on a rolling basis, but specific programs have deadlines. For the 2025 academic year, many faculties accept applications until December 1, 2024, for spring semester and June 1, 2025, for fall. International students should apply early for visa processing. Always verify current dates on the official website.

Official Website

For more information, please visit the official website: PhD Scholarships at University of Zurich

Contact Information for PhD Admissions and Inquiries

For inquiries about PhD scholarships, reach out via email at [email protected] or call +41 44 634 22 36.

Physical Address:
Rämistrasse 71
8006 Zürich
Switzerland

Additional Information

International Student Services

UZH offers comprehensive support for international PhD students, including orientation programs, housing assistance, and visa guidance. The International Scholars Center provides resources for integration into Swiss academic life. Visit International Students page for details.

Career Prospects

PhD graduates from UZH pursue careers in academia, industry, and international organizations. With a focus on global research, alumni often secure positions in biotech firms, environmental agencies, and universities worldwide. The Career Services office offers networking events and job placement support.

Resource Links

Explore funding options via UZH Funding page. For program specifics, check Doctoral Studies. International applicants can find visa info at Visa Information.

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

UZH PhD Funding Positions

University-funded PhD positions in related fields like plant sciences, offering salaries and research support. Eligible for all nationalities. Apply via department websites. More at UZH Funding.

Swiss National Science Foundation Grants

SNSF Doc.CH grants for PhD in humanities and social sciences, but adaptable for interdisciplinary agriculture-related projects. Funding up to CHF 50,000/year. Deadlines: March and September. Details at SNSF website.

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

EU-funded fellowships for international PhD mobility, including biotech and environmental sciences. Funding: €3,400/month plus allowances. Open calls annually. Apply through MSCA portal.

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