ChronoBridge
Funded by the European Union
Horizon EuropeMarie Skłodowska-Curie ActionsDoctoral Network
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Apply to the ChronoBridge Doctoral Network

Recruitment is organised by the host institutions, with shared coordination to ensure an open and transparent selection process.

Who can Apply?

Applications are welcome from candidates of any nationality who meet the following requirements:

  • No doctoral degree: You must not hold a doctoral degree or have successfully defended a doctoral thesis at the time of recruitment.
  • Mobility rule: You must not have lived or carried out your main activity, such as work or studies, in the recruiting institution’s country for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately before recruitment. Exemptions include short stays such as holidays, compulsory national service and qualifying periods related to protection procedures, as defined by MSCA rules.
  • Doctoral admission: You must meet the admission requirements of the doctoral program associated with your chosen position.

The doctoral-degree and mobility requirements must be met on the recruitment date, meaning the first day of employment. Additional academic and scientific requirements will be specified in each vacancy announcement.

What profile are we looking for?

We are looking for curious and motivated researchers who want to investigate biological rhythms and their relevance to health and disease. Depending on the position, suitable backgrounds include biology, biomedical sciences, bioinformatics, computational biology and related scientific disciplines.

We particularly value:

  • A strong scientific curiosity and motivation to pursue a PhD.
  • Critical thinking and a rigorous approach to experimental design or quantitative analysis.
  • Relevant laboratory, computational or data-analysis skills, together with a willingness to learn new methods.
  • Initiative, organisation and the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Good communication skills in English and an enthusiasm for sharing knowledge.
  • An interest in interdisciplinary research connecting fundamental biology, computational approaches and clinical questions.
  • A willingness to undertake international mobility, exchange ideas and collaborate with researchers across Europe.

What we offer

ChronoBridge offers paid doctoral research positions with social-security coverage, within a European research and training network.

Successful candidates will benefit from:

  • 36 months of project-funded research, with any additional funding or contract duration specified in the individual vacancy.
  • Supervision and support from researchers at the participating institutions.
  • An individual career-development plan.
  • Scientific and transferable-skills training.
  • International research secondments and opportunities for collaboration across academic, clinical and industry settings.

Salary, benefits, employment conditions and the expected starting date will be detailed in each vacancy announcement.

Participation in the network

Joining ChronoBridge means participating in both an individual doctoral project and a collaborative European research program.

Doctoral candidates are expected to:

  • Carry out their research and work towards a doctoral degree.
  • Participate in network meetings, shared training activities and scientific exchanges.
  • Undertake the research secondments planned for their position.
  • Share knowledge and collaborate across disciplines and partner institutions.

These activities form an integral part of the doctoral program.

How to apply

Prepare an application tailored to your chosen doctoral position. The expected application documents include:

  • A CV describing your education, research experience and relevant skills.
  • A motivation letter explaining your interest in the position and how your background fits the project.
  • Academic diplomas and transcripts.
  • References from at least two previous mentors or supervisors, in the format requested by the recruiting institution.
  • Evidence of English proficiency, according to the institution’s requirements and any applicable exemptions.

Each vacancy announcement will confirm the final document checklist, submission instructions and how to identify the position you are applying for. It will also clarify whether applications to multiple ChronoBridge positions are permitted.

How does the recruitment process work?

  • Applications — until First half of 2027: Submit your complete application before the deadline specified in the vacancy announcement.
  • Application review — after the deadline: Applications will be checked for eligibility and assessed for academic background, relevant skills, motivation and suitability for the position.
  • Interviews — First half of 2027: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to discuss their experience, scientific interests and motivation.
  • Recruitment outcomes — First half of 2027: Candidates will be informed of the outcome of the selection process.

The exact closing date, time and time zone, together with the expected employment start date, will be published in the vacancy announcements.

Equal opportunities

We welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds. Recruitment will follow an open, transparent and merit-based process. Career breaks related to childcare or illness will not be penalised.