The ICIQ PhD Programme 2026 is now open for international students who want to pursue a fully funded doctoral degree in chemistry in Spain. This prestigious programme, offered by the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia, provides salaried PhD positions in collaboration with Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV). It is an excellent opportunity for candidates seeking advanced research training in Europe while earning a competitive research contract.
Through the ICIQ PhD Programme 2026, selected candidates will work on innovative projects in areas such as catalysis, renewable energy, and supramolecular medicine. The programme combines high-level scientific supervision with professional development in a dynamic research environment. If you are passionate about cutting-edge chemical research and want to build an international academic career, this fully funded PhD in Spain could be the perfect next step.
Benefits
- Salary (Gross Annual):
- Year 1 & 2: €19,007.22
- Year 3: €20,364.88
- Year 4: €25,456.10
- Full Social Security coverage
- Access to Spanish public healthcare
- Pension and unemployment benefits
- PhD enrollment fees refunded
- 4-year full-time contract
- Flexible working hours
- Maternity, paternity, and medical leave protection
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the ICIQ Fully Funded PhD Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Hold or complete a Master’s degree (or equivalent) before enrolment
- Background in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Physics, Chemical Engineering or related fields
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show clear research motivation
- Have solid English communication skills
- English certificate (B2 / IELTS 6 or equivalent) is desirable but not mandatory. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed to assess language proficiency.
Evaluation Criteria
- Curriculum vitae.
- Personal statement.
- Academic marks.
- English level.
- Personal interview for short-listed candidates.
How to Apply?
- Visit the ICIQ Careers page and open the online application form for the PhD Programme. Applications sent by email or any other method will not be accepted.
- Complete every field in the form carefully. Only one application per person will be considered.
- Upload all required documents in PDF format: CV, personal statement (max 2 pages), official transcripts (with English translation if needed), and proof of English language ability if available.
- Include contact details for two referees so recommendation letters can be requested if you are shortlisted.
- Choose only one PhD supervisor or research project and mention it clearly in your application.
- Ensure every document is attached and correct before submission; incomplete applications will not be considered.
- After submitting, check your email for a confirmation message and keep an eye on spam folders.
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an interview, and final selection decisions are expected by late March 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The ICIQ PhD Programme 2026 offers fully-funded PhD positions for exceptional graduates in chemistry-related fields. Applications are online with strict eligibility criteria, document requirements, and competitive evaluation. Shortlisted candidates undergo interviews and receive pre-doctoral contracts with full benefits.
What is the ICIQ PhD Programme 2026?
The ICIQ PhD Programme 2026 is a fully-funded research training initiative for exceptional graduate students worldwide. It provides a structured path to a doctoral degree while offering professional development opportunities in both academia and industry.
Who is eligible to apply for the programme?
Applicants must hold or be about to complete a Master’s or equivalent degree in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or related disciplines. Candidates from any nationality are welcome, provided they meet the academic and language requirements.
How do I submit my application?
Applications are completed entirely online through the ICIQ Careers portal. Only one application per candidate is accepted, and any missing documents or submissions by other means will not be considered in the selection process.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants must submit a CV, personal statement, BSc and MSc transcripts (with certified English translation if needed), contact details for two referees, and proof of English proficiency. Hard copies are not accepted under any circumstances.
Can I select more than one PhD supervisor?
No, candidates must select only one PhD supervisor for their application. This ensures a clear alignment of research interests and helps the evaluation committee properly assess the candidate’s fit with the chosen research project.
Is English proficiency required?
Applicants must demonstrate a working knowledge of English. Preferred evidence includes B2, First Certificate, or IELTS 6. Candidates from English-speaking countries are exempt, and late-stage interviews may assess English if documentation is unavailable.
How are applications evaluated?
Evaluation considers the CV, personal statement, academic marks, and English level. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed. The selection process is competitive and ensures candidates meet both academic excellence and research potential standards.
When will candidates be notified?
All applicants will receive final selection decisions by the end of March 2026. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted earlier for a personal interview. Offers must be accepted within five business days or will be considered declined.
What are the grant conditions?
Awardees receive a pre-doctoral employment contract regulated under Spanish law, renewed annually for up to four years based on performance. The contract includes a gross yearly salary and full social security coverage, including healthcare, pension, and unemployment benefits.
Does ICIQ follow equality and work-life policies?
Yes, ICIQ ensures a gender equality and non-discrimination policy and promotes work-life balance with flexible working hours. The selection process and working environment are designed to be inclusive, fair, and supportive for all researchers.
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