We want to attract highly qualified MSc graduates in pharmaceutical sciences, nutritional sciences, sports science, chemistry, (molecular) biology, or related disciplines.

Different routes to a doctoral degree

There are three major categories of doctoral candidates in the doctoral schools of the University of Vienna.

While all doctoral candidates have to complete the mandatory coursework and the milestones of the doctoral programme, they differ in terms of funding and access to support measures.

1. Funded doctoral candidates at PhaNuSpo

Funded doctoral candidates obtain a university- or a third-party funded position ("predoctoral") at the University of Vienna under the supervision of a member of the VDS PhaNuSpo. As employees, they are provided with a workplace at the University. Depending on the kind of employment, doctoral candidates may have to participate in research, administration and teaching at the department where they are employed.

As PhaNuSpo candidates, they benefit from the supervisory structure of the doctoral school, take part in cohort-related activities and can apply for additional funding for research and travel expenses.

Required steps

1. Application for an open position
2. Application for admission to the PhD programme in Pharmacy or Nutritional Sciences or Sport Science
3. Consent to the Code of Good Practice for Doctoral School

2. Self-funded doctoral candidates at PhaNuSpo

If doctoral candidates have at least one supervisor who is a member of the VDS PhaNuSpo, they can apply for admission to the Doctoral School. All PhaNuSpo students are expected to be able to participate in the activities of the school and to pass the public presentation within 12 months.They benefit from the supervisory structure of the VDS PhaNuSpo, take part in cohort-related activities and can apply for funding of research costs and travel expenses.

The VDS PhaNuSpo will support these students in their efforts to secure long-term funding for their doctoral thesis project.

Required steps

1. Application for admission to the PhD programme in Pharmacy or Nutritional Sciences or Sport Science
2. Having a supervisor/ PI being PhaNuSpo member
3. Consent to the Code of Good Practice for Doctoral Schools

3. Independent doctoral candidates

It is possible to study in the doctoral programmes in Pharmacy, Nutritional Sciences and Sport Science without joining the VDS PhaNuSpo.

However, please note that many offers and services provided for doctoral candidates are restricted to members of the VDS PhaNuSpo.

Required steps

1. Application for admission to the PhD programme in Pharmacy or Nutritional Sciences or Sport Science