MSCA Doctoral Networks 2027

Overview

Funding for international, interdisciplinary doctoral training networks that equip researchers with research and transferable skills for careers in academia, industry, or entrepreneurship. Targets partnerships of universities, research institutions, businesses, and other socio-economic actors.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of at least three independent legal entities from three different eligible countries, including at least two EU Member States or Horizon Europe Associated Countries. Participation of non-academic organizations (e.g., businesses, SMEs, public bodies) is encouraged. Third-country organizations may join if their participation provides added value.

Funding Details

• Total budget: EUR 608.4 million (2027 call)
• Funding rate: 100% of eligible costs
• Grant amount: Typically EUR 3 million per network (varies based on number of doctoral candidates and duration)
• Duration: 48 months
• Doctoral candidate support: Living allowance (EUR 3,400/month gross, adjusted by country correction coefficient), mobility allowance (EUR 600/month), and family allowance (EUR 660/month if applicable)

What Is Funded

• Doctoral training programs addressing well-identified research and innovation needs across disciplines.
• Joint, industrial, or interdisciplinary doctoral degrees, including secondments to non-academic partners.
• Training in research-related and transferable skills (e.g., entrepreneurship, IPR, communication, digital tools, Open Science).
• Networking activities (workshops, conferences), supervision, and career development plans for doctoral candidates.
• Knowledge valorisation, societal engagement, and citizen science initiatives.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4–6, focusing on experimental development and validation in relevant environments.

Key Dates

• Call opens: 2027-05-25
• Deadline: 2027-11-22T23:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

• Single-stage submission via the [Funding & Tenders Portal](https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal).
• Proposals must include a Part A (administrative forms) and Part B (technical description, max 30 pages).
• Evaluation based on excellence, impact, and implementation criteria.

Post-Award Obligations

• Open, transparent, and merit-based recruitment of doctoral candidates, advertised internationally (e.g., via EURAXESS).
• Establishment of a Supervisory Board to coordinate training and supervision.
• Career Development Plans for each doctoral candidate, revised within 18 months.
• Reporting on progress, financials, and outcomes, including dissemination of results and compliance with Open Science principles.
• Adherence to the European Charter for Researchers and MSCA Supervision Guidelines.

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Horizon Europe Associated Countries (e.g., Norway, Iceland, UK, Switzerland), and select third countries (subject to specific conditions).
• Application language: English.

Notes

• Industrial Doctorates require joint supervision by academic and non-academic partners.
• Joint Doctorates must lead to joint, double, or multiple degrees recognized in at least one eligible country.
• Proposals must align with the EU Principles for Innovative Doctoral Training and MSCA Green Charter.
• Co-funding is not required, but consortia may include self-funded partners.