AUFRANDE is a PhD training program for talented researchers of any age, nationality, culture, gender, and sexual orientation, co-funded by the European Union as part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA). Candidates applying for an open position must fulfil all the following eligibility criteria:

• Not have been awarded a doctoral degree. Researchers who have successfully defended their doctoral thesis but who have not yet formally been awarded the doctoral degree will NOT be considered eligible to apply; and
• Not have resided in France for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately before the call’s deadline* (i.e. from 24 January 2021); and
• Not be already permanently employed by the research host for the position you are applying to; and
• Fulfil the requirements to enrol in a doctoral program at both PhD-awarding institutions in France and Australia (as described in each position description); and
• Demonstrate English language proficiency.

* Time spent as part of a procedure for obtaining refugee status under the Geneva Convention (1951 Refugee Convention and the 1967 Protocol), compulsory national service and/or short stays such as holidays are not taken into account.

NB: If you do not meet all conditions, your application will be rejected. For complete eligibility details, including special circumstances and evidence to be submitted, check the Guide for applicants.

Equal opportunities

Our selection process is in line with the principles set out in the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for Recruitment. The consortium adheres to the principles of the European Commission’s Strategy on Equal Opportunities for Women and Men and promotes genuine equal access opportunities between all applicants throughout the recruitment process. Furthermore, a researcher requiring extra support might be eligible for a special circumstances allowance.

The application process is entirely online.

Candidates may apply for up to 3 positions (all in the same application).

Before applying

1. Carefully read the Guide for Applicants, and the FAQ before starting your application.
2. Make sure you understand the position description and entry requirements (see Open Positions).
3. Confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria.
4. Prepare all the documentation requested (in English).

Applying to an AUFRANDE position

5. Create a personal account: register on the application portal.
6. Activate your account: you will receive an email with an activation link. You must click on this activation link.
7. Log in and locate the AUFRANDE Program.
8. Complete the application form online for the desired position.
9. Upload ALL requested documents: only documents uploaded on the platform will be considered.
10. Review all the information and submit the form before the deadline.

In parallel, remind your 2 referees to submit their references on the portal before 14 February 2024.

We require that all candidates follow the same application process to ensure that the selection process is consistent and fair: only applications that are complete, in English, and submitted online before the deadline will be considered eligible. Incomplete applications will be discarded.

Applicants will be evaluated on a set of evaluation criteria including academic merit, scientific quality and research potential, ability to carry out a research project and work in an international context.

For full selection criteria check the Guide for Applicants. You can also download the Guide for Evaluators to see how your application will be assessed.

At the end of each evaluation stage, you will be notified by email if your application has progressed to the next stage or if it is unsuccessful. In case your application is not successful, you will receive an email explaining why and detailing the redress process. Applicants will be given 7 days to submit a request for redress. The redress process is detailed in the Guide for Applicants.

To be considered as complete, your application must comprise:

• The application form and declaration that you meet the MSCA and mobility criteria, to be completed online;
• A scanned copy of a valid photo identification document (national ID, passport, or equivalent);
• A Curriculum Vitae;
• A motivation essay;
• A scanned copy of official academic transcripts (Master’s or equivalent and Bachelor’s);
• Proof of English proficiency,  if English is not your first language;
• Optional: 1-page overview of your Master’s (or equivalent) research project;
• The contact details for 2 referees, who will be asked to provide brief statements of recommendation.

Find out more on the position description.