Promising PhD students from developing nations can apply for the Special Research Fund Scholarship, which is provided by Ghent University, a prestigious university dedicated to excellence in research and education. With the help of this exceptional opportunity, students can carry out their research at Ghent University, which is situated in the “North,” as well as a partner university in the “South,” which is a developing nation. The scholarship programme seeks to address important development challenges while fostering global cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Qualification Standards
In order to be eligible for the Ghent University Special Research Fund Scholarship, applicants need to fulfil certain requirements. Let’s take a closer look at these requirements.
Nationality and Origin Nation
Applicants must be citizens of one of the developing nations that Ghent University has identified as being chosen. Because the scholarship is only open to citizens of these nations, it guarantees that students from these areas will have access to high-quality instruction and research opportunities.
Submission of a Joint Proposal
A joint proposal from the candidate, a supervisor from Ghent University, and a supervisor from the partner university in the South must be submitted with the scholarship application. This cooperative strategy guarantees that the research is in line with the objectives and areas of specialisation of both institutions, resulting in significant and pertinent research outputs.
Domain of Study
Although the research field is not specifically restricted, topics that are directly related to development issues are given preference. The focus on development-oriented research enables academics to make significant contributions towards tackling societal issues in their respective nations.
Status of Degree
Degree candidates who plan to earn a PhD from Ghent University, either jointly or alone, are eligible for the scholarship. Those enrolled in other academic programmes or exchange students are not eligible for this particular scholarship. Furthermore, the programme is mainly designed for students who are just starting their PhD journey. Candidates who have made progress in their preliminary research, however, may be granted an exception, provided that at least 36 months of doctoral research are still outstanding.
Diversity in Gender
Ghent University is dedicated to advancing research that is gender-neutral. A maximum of two candidates per call may receive support from a Ghent University supervisor as part of this initiative, provided that they are of different genders. This strategy guarantees equal opportunities for scholarship support and encourages female researchers to apply.
Co-funding Conditions
For the Ghent University Special Research Fund Scholarship, co-funding is required. Certain requirements, such as having a local PhD supervisor and having a written statement verifying a full-time local PhD scholarship or salary for 24 months, must be guaranteed by the partner university in the South. Additionally, the candidate should have enough time off from teaching or other responsibilities to devote all of their attention to their research.
Scheme of Mobility
A required mobility plan outlining the research stays at Ghent University and the locally funded research in the South is part of the scholarship programme. Let’s examine this scheme’s specifics.
Research Visits at the University of Gent
Students must spend three to twelve months at Ghent University beginning and ending their research stay. Ghent University requires the first research stay to begin between October 1, 2024, and February 28, 2025. Students get the chance to become acquainted with the Ghent University research environment during this first visit.
Regionally Sponsored Studies in the South
It is necessary to schedule at least 24 months of locally funded research in the South between the first and last research stay at Ghent University. During this research period, students can work with their supervisors and colleagues at the partner university to support research and development projects back home.
Exclusions from the Mobility Programme
Although the mobility plan is required, depending on certain conditions, requests for exceptions may be made. Among these exclusions are:
Applicants who must finish their PhD studies at the affiliated university in order to start working on new projects.
Applicants who must first complete a term of fieldwork in the South prior to beginning their four years of doctoral study.
Candidates who have effectively finished a PhD study period at Ghent University or the partner university, funded full-time.
Before January 19, 2024, applicants must receive approval from Ghent University’s research administration in order to request an exception to the mobility scheme.
Funding Specifics
Selected candidates can further their research journeys with financial support from the Ghent University Special Research Fund Scholarship. Let’s examine this scholarship’s financing information.
PhD Fellowship at the University of Gent
A total of 24 months of research at Ghent University are covered by the scholarship. The chosen candidates receive funding during this time to help with living expenses and research-related costs. It is crucial to remember that Ghent University only provides funding for research conducted on campus.
Budget for Travel and Bench Fee
The supervisor at Ghent University is paid a bench fee of €310 per month for research done at the university, in addition to the candidate’s monthly stipend. This charge is intended to help cover the project’s operating expenses. In addition, a travel budget of €8,000 has been set aside to pay for the student’s travel expenses as well as those of the local supervisors and Ghent University, promoting cooperation and knowledge sharing between the two organisations.
Procedure for Applications
There is a methodical procedure involved in applying for the Ghent University Special Research Fund Scholarship. Let’s examine the necessary actions and prerequisites for a fruitful application.
Submission Conditions
Applicants must electronically send their application materials to [email protected], the designated email address. Completed applications must be submitted in English and must include all required information and supporting documentation.
The supervisor’s suggestions
The Ghent University supervisor needs to send two important documents with the application. The supervisor’s assessment of the candidate’s potential as a future researcher is included in the first document, which offers advice on the candidate. In order to make sure that the research complies with ethical standards, the second document provides guidance on the ethical and biosafety context of the proposed research project.
Deadline for Applications
Applications for scholarships must be submitted by February 20, 2024. It is crucial that you follow this deadline and send in the application along with the necessary supporting documentation by the date given. Submissions received after the deadline might not be evaluated.
Selection Outcomes and Input
Starting on May 15, 2024, the outcomes of the scholarship selection process will be made public via the internet. On the assigned platform, candidates will be able to view the status of their application. Furthermore, candidates who would like feedback on their application may send an email to [email protected], the Research Coordination Office.
Documents and regulations that are helpful
Ghent University offers a number of helpful guidelines and documents to help applicants and scholars during the scholarship application process. Among these resources are:
Template final report: Within three months of the research’s conclusion, an electronic copy of the final scientific or scholarly report must be sent to [email protected]. The results and findings of the research should be summarised in the report.
Guidelines for administering the Special Research Fund’s (BOF) finances: The administration and use of the scholarship funds are covered in great detail by these regulations.
Details of Contact: Applicants and scholars can email [email protected] to the Research Coordination Office, Special Research Fund for more information and inquiries.
Final Thoughts
Promising PhD candidates from developing nations have a rare chance to work with Ghent University and a partner university in the South to achieve their research objectives through the Ghent University Special Research Fund Scholarship. This scholarship programme encourages international collaboration and sustainable development in addition to intellectual and academic advancement. Ghent University hopes to establish a worldwide network of researchers committed to tackling important issues and making a positive difference in their home countries by empowering scholars from a variety of backgrounds.
Deadline to Apply: February 20, 2024
Visit the Official Website for Further Details