IBEC-VHIR International PhD Programme

The IBEC-VHIR International PhD Programme 2026 is a prestigious doctoral fellowship opportunity offered through a collaboration between the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) and the Vall d’Hebron University Hospital Foundation – Research Institute (VHIR) in Barcelona, Spain. This programme aims to foster translational research and train the next generation of biomedical researchers, with a strong emphasis on bioengineering and biological sciences.

Successful candidates will be awarded a 4-year predoctoral contract, spending approximately half of their fellowship at VHIR and the remainder at IBEC. The programme is designed to promote interdisciplinary research and collaboration between leading academic and clinical research groups. Fellows will benefit from a dynamic research environment, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and mentorship from experienced group leaders at both institutions.

The economic package includes a competitive gross annual salary: €19,500 for the first two years, €23,713 for the third year, and €25,079.85 for the fourth year. Additionally, €6,860 is provided over the four-year period to cover mobility expenses and doctoral programme enrolment fees. The contract includes full social security coverage, health and accident insurance, pension contributions, and unemployment benefits. Fellows also enjoy generous leave policies, flexible working hours, and work–life balance measures such as maternity/paternity leave and breastfeeding leave.

Eligibility criteria require candidates to have a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, or an official qualification from a European Higher Education Area institution with a minimum of 300 ECTS (including at least 60 ECTS at Master’s level). Candidates expecting to obtain these qualifications by October 2026 are eligible. Applicants must be within 2 years of completion of their Master’s degree or 5 years of completion of their Bachelor’s degree at the application deadline. A minimum average Bachelor’s degree grade of 7/10 (Spanish grading system or equivalent) is required. Candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to scientific research, an excellent academic record, and a good working knowledge of English. Applicants must not hold a doctoral degree or have held a PhD contract exceeding 12 months by October 2026, and must not have held any fellowship from the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities for a PhD thesis at the application deadline.

To apply, candidates must submit their application online before March 31, 2026. Required documents include personal data and CV, cover letter, certified academic record, explanatory document for ECTS if needed, research experience, current working situation, publications and merits, two letters of recommendation (not from future supervisors), and a document indicating the three PhD research projects of interest. All documents must be uploaded in the specified format. For further information or questions, applicants can contact [email protected] or [email protected].

This programme offers an excellent opportunity for aspiring biomedical researchers to develop their skills in a collaborative, international environment, with strong institutional support and funding. For full details and to apply, visit the application portal.