phd netherlands cost

PhD Finance and Funding

The following fees and costs apply to all PhD researchers:

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PhD in Netherlands – Your Complete Guide

The Netherlands is one of the prestigious destinations for all international students for higher education. It has some of the well-known and top-ranked universities in Europe. It is a country that has developed rich traditions of artistic, cultural, and scientific achievement. The country’s multicultural and multilingual population also means that most of its doctoral programmes are taught in English.Like in the UK, PhD in Netherlands is carried out on a specific topic and documented in a thesis that presents the student’s results and conclusions. In most countries, a doctoral candidate is considered a student who studies and does research. But in the Netherlands, PhD candidates are traditionally researchers employed by a university to complete a dissertation or thesis. Since these jobs allow you to complete your PhD degree while earning a salary and without paying tuition fees, they are highly competitive. Once you are hired, your research will be conducted on the topic specified in the vacancy and in conjunction with a faculty, research institute or research school. Most candidates complete their PhD within four years. So, this means you have social security, build up retirement funds, pay taxes, and are expected to perform like an employee, fulfilling certain functioning criteria.

All PhD candidates are part of a graduate school or research school. Research schools are partnerships between multiple research universities and research institutes, while graduate schools are organised within universities. Both provide an inspiring research environment, offering tailor-made study programmes, master classes, seminars and conferences.

PhD Supervision in Netherlands

PhD students have a supervisor, who is an expert academic university professor, responsible for overseeing your research and thesis writing. They will also need to approve your final thesis for submission.

Depending on the specific structure and requirements of your doctoral programme, this supervision may involve regular progress checks and formal review points. You may also have a co-supervisor.

Length of PhD in Netherlands

PhD in Netherlands generally lasts for a minimum of four years. This is partly due to the employment status as a doctoral researcher and the additional teaching and administrative responsibilities that this entails.

Doctoral researchers that are not formally associated with a university (i.e., external doctoral candidates) may take longer to complete their studies.

Cost of PhD in Netherlands

Most PhD students in the Netherlands are considered  university employees  and therefore receive a salary to fund their research. Therefore, there are  no traditional tuition fees  for doctoral candidates or doctoral fellows.  However, there are other types of doctoral candidates that may not be considered university employees. These are:

• contract doctoral research associates  have their research sponsored by an external source such as a scholarship or external employer
• external doctoral candidates  are self-funded and work on their PhD research in their free time

Scholarships/ Funding for PhD in Netherlands

In Netherlands, there are generally 3 ways to fund PhD studies:

• employed by the PhD-awarding institution;
• with a fellowship or grant awarded by a supporting body;
• with sponsorship from the employer.

Employed by an institution The majority of PhD candidates in the Netherlands have an employment contract with the institution where they will be conducting their research.

Fellowship or grant About one-sixth of PhD candidates in the Netherlands find funding in the form of a fellowship or grant, and many of these come from abroad. Once you have found a fellowship or grant, you will need to find a supervisor at a research institution willing to support you. Organisations offering fellowships and grants can be found on the EURAXESS website and at our Finances overview.

Sponsored by your employer It is sometimes possible to study for a PhD part-time while working. If you and your employer are interested in this option, you should contact the institution of your choice for more information.

Application Process for PhD in Netherlands

Admission for a Ph.D. programme in Netherlands involves various steps which are discussed below:

• Finding a supervisor: the PhD programme involves one-on-one interaction with the supervisor and the college or university may not assign a faculty for your guidance. You should make sure that you find a guide in your area of study from the college/ university that you want to apply for.
• Once the supervisor agrees to act as your guide and to support your application for the School’s Ph.D. programme, you will be required to submit an official application to the university.
• You will be asked to provide your contact details, curriculum vitae and supporting documents including the research proposal, personal statement, transcript and references.
• Prepare a Research Proposal : This holds the key in the application process for the Ph.D. programme. Normally a proposal should be between 1,500 and 2,000 words. The proposal should explain your area of study, the aim of your research and your hypothesis.
• Personal statement:  The most important challenge is to put down in words the reason for pursuing the particular programme, what attracts you to the subject area and how your studies or work experience has influenced you to take up PhD studies. It is a very important document and holds a lot of value in eyes of the admission committee.
• References : All programmes will ask for referees who can provide details about your academic abilities and motivation. In some cases, there will be specific referee forms available on the school site. And in other cases, a referee may be asked to provide a letter of reference in his/her own words.

Post-Study Work Visa in Netherlands

Graduates of higher education or university studies (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees) can apply for a  Dutch orientation year visa  within three years of graduating. This gives you one year to look for employment, during which time you can work without any restrictions or the need for an employer to hold a work permit for you.

Family visa norms in Netherlands

This depends on the conditions of the residence permit held by your partner in the Netherlands. The back of your own residence permit will tell you if you are allowed to work in the Netherlands, and if so, under what conditions.

Broadly speaking (but not always – see below), as a non-EEA spouse/partner of a person based in the Netherlands, you will be given the same rights to work as your partner.

If your partner is a Dutch citizen, whether, by birth or acquisition, the back of your residence permit should state the words ‘ arbeid vrij toegestaan. TWV niet vereist ’, which means “work freely allowed. TWV not required”. TWV stands for ‘ tewerkstellingsvergunning’,   which means work permit.

If your partner in the Netherlands is not a Dutch citizen, but they have a residence permit, the Dutch immigration service will give you the same work rights as your partner.

If your partner in the Netherlands requires a TWV to work, then you will also need a TWV to seek employment.

If your partner in the Netherlands is not permitted to work, then you will also not be able to work.

Can I work in Netherlands part-time during my studies?

Most PhD students in the Netherlands are employed by their universities, and therefore there may not be much scope for additional work. Nonetheless, in some cases, you may wish to undertake additional employment.

EU / EEA / Swiss students are free to work alongside PhD studies without restrictions. Other international students will require a work permit from the UWV (which is generally applied by the employer and not the student) and are permitted to work a maximum of 16 hours per week and full-time during the summer.

How can “Road to Abroad” help you?

We provide the best PhD Assistance across the globe. We provide the right guidance and support needed to complete the tedious and time-consuming PhD admission process. Our flawless track record and very high success rate have fulfilled the dreams of many students who aspire to gain a doctoral degree. We will help you secure a fully-funded PhD position and help you in all the steps from application to immigration. For more information, visit our PhD Consultation Page .

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Pursuing a PhD means spending a minimum of four years conducting original research and writing a dissertation. Throughout this time, PhD candidates work in close collaboration with their supervisor. A PhD is not regarded as study, but as serious research and PhD candidates in the Netherlands are often in paid employment.

Pursuing a PhD in the Netherlands

Admission and funding, why choose the netherlands for your phd.

The Netherlands has:

• excellent graduate schools;
• a large variety of research fields and extensive interdisciplinary collaboration;
• world-class research: ten Dutch research universities are ranked in the top 200 of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022;
• mostly paid employment contracts for PhD candidates.

Research schools and graduate schools

All PhD candidates are part of a graduate school or research school. Research schools are partnerships between multiple research universities and research institutes, while graduate schools are organised within universities. Both provide an inspiring research environment, offering tailor-made study programmes, master classes, seminars and conferences.

A Dutch PhD is highly regarded

Once your dissertation is approved for publication, you will attend the public defence of your research and will be awarded the PhD at a ceremony steeped in tradition. A PhD from a Dutch university is highly regarded because of the high academic standards. The Netherlands has an excellent international ranking for the number of publications per researcher (2nd) and for the impact of research publication (4th).

Where are PhDs offered?

In the Netherlands, research is carried out by research universities, research institutes and companies, but only research universities can award PhD degrees. Other research institutes that work in close collaboration with a research university may also offer PhD positions.

Most PhD posts will often be advertised on job boards, such as AcademicTransfer , in scientific journals, or on notice boards at other institutions. If you see a PhD position that interests you, contact the institution directly about the application procedure.

Your own research proposal

If you have a specific research proposal of your own and cannot find a vacancy to match it, you may pitch your idea to universities or research groups that conduct research in the relevant field and are able to provide funding.

Admission criteria for PhD positions are rigorous, and potential candidates must have a solid background in the theory and methods of their field as well as a recognised master’s degree. PhD students from other countries generally choose to write their dissertation in English and will therefore need to demonstrate a good command of English idiom and grammar before the dissertation begins.

Funding your PhD position

In the Netherlands, there are generally 3 ways to fund your PhD:

• employed by the PhD-awarding institution;
• with a fellowship or grant awarded by a supporting body;
• with sponsorship from your employer.

Employed by an institution The majority of PhD candidates in the Netherlands have an employment contract with the institution where they will be conducting their research.

Fellowship or grant About one sixth of PhD candidates in the Netherlands find funding in the form of a fellowship or grant, and many of these come from abroad. Once you have found a fellowship or grant, you will need to find a supervisor at a research institution willing to support you. Organisations offering fellowships and grants can be found on the EURAXESS website and at our Finances overview .

Sponsored by your employer It is sometimes possible to study for a PhD part-time while working. If you and your employer are interested in this option, you should contact the institution of your choice for more information.

Tuition fees

Some Dutch institutions charge fees for enrolment, supervision and access to laboratories and other facilities. Each research university is free to decide on how much it charges and fees do vary from one discipline to the next, depending on whether expensive equipment is required or not.

The EURAXESS website provides detailed practical information useful for researchers (including PhD candidates) coming to the Netherlands, covering immigration procedures, social security, taxation, healthcare insurance, etc. If you need an entry visa, your prospective institution will advise you on the correct procedure for your particular situation.

PhD at VU Amsterdam

Follow our youtube channel at  Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam  and  VU Amsterdam International Student .

At Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam we provide three or four year research intensive PhD programs, or part time PhD programs with a duration above four years, organized in graduate schools of nine VU Amsterdam faculties. We expect our doctoral graduates to become internationally engaged scientists with transferable skills and opportunities to plan a career in or outside academia. 

We offer customized training and supervision with a strong emphasis on the development of research as well as professional skills such as the ability to work in teams and collaborate. In short, we wish to develop engaged and responsible academics and future professionals who constantly explore and push back the boundaries of existing knowledge. Our doctorates are internationally-oriented, multi and interdisciplinary, curiosity and results driven, creating an impact in science, society and economy.

Earning a doctorate from VU Amsterdam often leads to a career as a scholar and researcher in universities, and non-universities (universities of applied sciences); non-profits and think tanks; consultancies and corporations.

At VU Amsterdam we have two types of PhD candidates: internal and external. Internal PhD candidates are paid employees of VU Amsterdam and enter into labor agreement with VU Amsterdam. External PhDs candidates undertake a PhD at VU Amsterdam with a foreign funding or scholarship scheme, or are self funded professionals or students. 

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PhD admission

If you wish to obtain a PhD at Leiden University, you first have to be admitted to one of the Graduate Schools. This means that you have to meet specific requirements, including a prior education requirement.

The admission procedures for the Graduate Schools are given on the various websites . Although each Graduate School has its own admission procedure, you must in any case:

• have been awarded a master’s degree or an equivalent master’s degree from another institution, or who have passed the ‘old style’ doctoral (doctoraal) examination of a government-funded or appointed Dutch university.
• give the name of a professor (or associate  professor with ius promovendi*) at Leiden University who is willing to be your supervisor. 
• have a second supervisor. This can be either another professor (supervisor) or a co-supervisor with a PhD, in either the same or a different faculty. If you have not already found a second supervisor, the dean will appoint a co-supervisor, to ensure that you are supervised by at least two individuals.

PhD regulations

The admission requirements are specified in the PhD regulations, together with options if you do not meet all the requirements.

Non-Dutch degree

If you have a degree from a non-Dutch university, your certificate will first have to be verified. After this, the dean will decide whether you can be admitted to the PhD track.

*Ius promovendi

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Funding and scholarships

If you are employed as a doctoral researcher by the UvA, you can sometimes apply for an additional grant to carry out fieldwork abroad, for example. Once you have completed your doctoral programme, you may also be able to apply for a grant to pursue an academic career after graduation.

A wide range of different grant options is available. Some of the more popular scholarships are listed below. This list is in no way comprehensive. You are therefore advised to contact the coordinator of the Graduate School or research institute that covers your discipline. They will be able to advise you on the most relevant grant providers in your specialist field.

PhD-related fees

In some cases fees can be charged to external PhD candidates, external scholarship providers and/or funding parties. Examples are fees to help fund workspaces, research facilities, training and education. If this is the case, these fees and any exemptions will be mentioned on the webpages of the relevant faculty or research institute.

General grants

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PhD programmes

A PhD track consists of original scientific research under the supervision of a professor, which takes on average 4 years.

Every year, around 400 PhD candidates defend their dissertation at Leiden University, spread across all the University’s different disciplines.

A PhD track consists of original scientific research under the supervision of a professor, which takes on average 4 years. Many PhD candidates are employed by the University, but a number are subsidised by a grant that they have acquired themselves. The University also has a large number of external PhD candidates, who generally work part-time on their research. 

Every PhD candidate is enrolled in one of the University Graduate Schools.

Read more about Studying for your PhD .

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Aljawaz Your guide to study abroad

Phd in the netherlands for international students.

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Pursuing a PhD in the Netherlands is an attractive prospect for many international students. The Netherlands is known for its progressive higher education system, with top universities, research institutes and industry partners. With a diverse range of research opportunities, excellent facilities and an open and welcoming environment, international students can benefit from a unique and rewarding experience. 

The Netherlands also offers financial support for PhD students, making it an attractive destination for those looking to further their studies. With an excellent quality of life and a vibrant cultural atmosphere, the Netherlands is the perfect place to take the next step in your academic journey.

Table of Contents

Is it worth doing a PhD in the Netherlands?

In the field of education, the Netherlands has an impressive reputation. And numerous benefits make it the ultimate destination for students seeking an international PhD experience. 

Some of the reasons to study in Holland include: 

• Outstanding graduate schools 
• Wide range of research programs 
• Excellent research facilities and world-class universities with 10 of the top Dutch universities being in the top 200 international ranking.
• Most PhD candidates get a paid contract as university employees.
• Top ranked worldwide when it comes to the number of publication per researcher (2nd) and the impact of research publication (4th)

And there is the accreditation. Usually, it’s up to the university to grant the degree and ensure the quality and content of each student’s doctoral training. However, when it comes to the quality of the PhD process, the Netherlands and Flemish Accreditation Organization ( NVAO ) is in charge of ensuring you earn a worthy degree.  

Structure of a PhD in the Netherlands

The Netherlands being part of the European Higher Education Area, a PhD program in the country accounts for a third-cycle qualification. The doctoral research then focuses on a specific topic and ends up with a thesis that presents the student’s results and conclusions. 

Moreover, like in any research work, students will work closely with a supervisor to oversee their doctorate and approve their thesis for submission. Supervision involves progress check, review points among other things. Students also can have a co-supervisor if needed. 

Is a PhD in the Netherlands paid?  

The answer is yes. Most doctorate candidates in the Netherlands have the status of professional researchers. In other words, they get a salary during their doctorate and in return they’ll have various tasks as researchers and to contribute to the university’s academic work and operation, such as teaching, and some administrative responsibilities. 

Students can find most PhD positions listed on job boards, on universities’ notice boards, or in scientific journals. 

How long does it take to do a PhD in the Netherlands?

Doing a PhD in the Netherlands requires you spend a minimum of 4 years to conduct research and write your dissertation. This is due to the employee status of the doctorate candidate, which require them to ensure other bonus tasks along with their research work. 

In the case the doctoral candidate is not associated to a university, like for an external candidate, it will take longer to complete the PhD degree. 

Dutch PhD defense ceremony

To defend your PhD thesis the Dutch way, there is a protocol you need to follow to the letter. As a matter of fact, the PhD defense in the Netherlands is not an examination but rather a ceremony. It serves the same purpose as a viva voce examination but with a more formal process in front of a traditionally dressed committee!

During this unique ceremony, the student also wears a full academic dress and uses formal titles. Moreover, the protocol stipulates what happens at each step, what the student should say at the beginning and how they should address their opponents. An officer of the university, a beadle, opens and closes the ceremony using a ceremonial staff. 

The doctoral committee consists of at least 3 academics. They are there to assess the student’s thesis and determine if it’s worthy of a doctorate. It may include a professor – a ‘most learned opponent’, or a post-doctorate academic, a ‘learned opponent’. Other invited individuals can also ask questions to the student. 

Another distinctive traits of the thesis defense in the Netherlands is the fact that students can have 2 supporters to accompany them. They served in the old days as “bodyguards” in case things got heated. Nowadays, they are more of a moral support and a practical assistance.

Lastly, PhD candidates need to publish their thesis as a book before the defense ceremony takes place. 

How to apply for a PhD position in the Netherlands?

PhD’s candidates in the Netherlands are part of the academic staff of a research school or a graduate school. Research schools consists of partnerships between several research universities and institutes. Graduate schools on the other hands are organizations within universities. However, only research universities and in some cases research institutes can award PhD degrees. 

Application can be done 2 ways: either you apply for an advertised PhD program or you submit your own research proposal. If you see a PhD position that interests you, contact the university directly to inquire about the application procedure. 

In the case you have a specific proposal but can’t find a vacancy that matches your intended project, the process is to pitch your idea to universities or research groups who work in the relevant field and able to provide the funding you need. 

Admission requirements 

The criteria for admission to doctoral positions are rigorous. And prospective candidates must have a strong background in theory and practices in their field. They also must have a master’s degree in a relevant subject area. International students must ensure their master is recognized in the Netherlands. 

To check a degree equivalency, you can go either on the website of the Dutch Organization for Internationalization in Education (Nuffic) or check with your choice university. Furthermore, since most international candidates choose to write their thesis in English, they need also need to provide a proof of a good command of the English language. (TOEFL or IELTS scores in most cases). 

Additional entry requirements vary depending on the research subject and the university. 

Check also our guide on how to apply to universities in the Netherlands .

How much does a PhD cost in Netherlands?

Since PhD students are university employees who receive a salary, many Dutch doctoral programs apply no tuition fees. At least not in the literal sense. However, some universities may charge statutory fees for the enrollment, supervision, examination, administration or access to the research facilities of the institution. 

Each university is free to decide how much fees they charge. Usually, this varies depending on the institution, the discipline of study, the cost of lab equipment etc.

Netherlands PhD funding

In the Netherlands, there are 3 ways to fund your doctoral studies: 

• Through an employment contract with your research university or institute
• With a fellowship or grant 
• With a sponsorship from an employer

The first option is the most common. Moreover, around 17% of PhD candidates get a funding from a fellowship or grant from abroad. These organizations offering grants can be found on the website of Euraxess . The last option is to study for your PhD part-time while working. In this case, your employer provides the necessary funding for your doctorate. 

Read also our guide on the scholarships in the Netherlands .

Netherlands PhD visa

EU/EEA/Swiss nationals do not require any visa for a PhD study in Holland. Non-EU/EEA citizens on the other hand need to arrange for a long-stay entry visa. Usually, your host university should offer you assistance for your application. If this is not the case, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the university’s international office or HR department. You’ll be able to collect your entry visa at a Dutch embassy or consulate in your home country.

Moreover, they also need to apply for a residence permit for study purpose from the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND). And lastly, upon your arrival in the Netherlands, you absolutely need to register with the local council of residence. This serves as a registration in the Personal Records Database (BRP) in order to get a Citizen Service Number (BSN). 

Get more details in our article on the student visa in the Netherlands .

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At Maastricht University, a PhD degree is not just a study but a serious research project that adds new knowledge to a given field. There are three ways to become a PhD candidate at UM, which are outlined below. As a PhD candidate, you’ll spend most of your time conducting original research and writing a dissertation. You might also follow courses relevant to your research or have teaching responsibilities as well. Most candidates take four years to complete their dissertation and earn their degree. Requirements for our PhD programmes vary, but you will at least need a master’s degree, a high level of English proficiency and a strong academic record.

There are three ways to obtain a PhD at Maastricht University:

Apply for a paid phd position.

As a paid PhD candidate, you’ll be an employee of the university and will conduct research in conjunction with a faculty, research school or institute. You can search for a PhD vacancy on Academic Transfer or contact a faculty directly.   Paid PhD positions

Note: FHML/MUMC+ discerns 4 types of PhDs.

Enrol in a PhD training programme

Several of our graduate schools and research institutes offer PhD training programmes. In these programmes, you will follow a number of courses as well as write a dissertation. We have both full-time and part-time programmes.

  PhD training programmes

Obtain external funding & pitch your idea

Do you have a specific research proposal that does not match one of our vacancies? Then you can also obtain external funding and pitch your idea to one of our faculties, graduate schools or research institutes.

  Externally funded PhDs

Why Maastricht University?

The Netherlands ranks second worldwide in the number of publications per researcher and third worldwide in the impact of research publications, according to the Netherlands organisation for international cooperation in higher education (NUFFIC). At Maastricht University, PhD candidates are respected as full-fledged members of our research community. You'll be treated as a peer and will be given all the support you need for your research. There is a high level of interdisciplinary and inter-institutional cooperation at UM, and PhDs often complete their dissertation alongside their career. Such a commitment requires hard work and fortitude. And it especially requires the capacity to innovate, to come up with new ideas and new ways of seeing and applying knowledge.

International environment

Maastricht University was the first university in the Netherlands to strive for internationalisation. Almost half of our students and 40% of our academic staff come from abroad. Each faculty, school and institute has extensive international partnership networks and the university encourages international research collaborations. Students and researchers have many opportunities to study and work abroad, and our graduates are eagerly sought in the international labour market and research community.

Active PhD community

At Maastricht University, we have a vibrant PhD community. There are many ways to connect with your peers on a social and professional level:

• PhD Academy Maastricht
• Young Researchers Academy
• Central PhD Candidates Platform
• PhD candidates Network (PNN)
• Meet & Greet Maastricht
• Representative participation for UM
• ProVUM Maastricht
• European Council of Doctoral Candidates and Junior Researchers (Eurodoc)

Current PhD candidates

In the overview for current PhDs, you can find more information on:

• additional courses
• professional development opportunities
• practical matters
• Scholarships

  Overview for current PhDs

Research master's

Have you finished your bachelor’s and would like to pursue a PhD? Then you should consider one of our research master’s programmes, which specifically prepare you to be successful as a doctoral candidate. In some of these programmes, more than 90% of the students go on to become PhD candidates. You can find the research master's programmes in our master's overview.

Master's programmes

Defending your thesis

A PhD Defence ceremony is a formal occasion with strict protocols governing each person’s role, responsibility, and even the language used. It all works a bit like a trial, hence the term ‘PhD defence’. If you are a PhD candidate at the end of your trajectory you need to formally request permission for a public defense ceremony soon. In this website you find information on practical matters you need to arrange before and during your doctoral research and explains how to go about your your PhD defense.

  More information

One step closer to an anti-stress pill

Why are some people more sensitive to stress than others? Dennis Hernaus was hired as a PhD candidate to study the relationship between stress and dopamine levels of patients using PET scanners. He found that low dopamine levels are associated with increased sensitivity to stress and vice versa.  

Wrestling with medical-ethical dilemmas during WWII

Is it okay for a doctor to make someone ill or appear ill if it saves them from being boarded on a train and sent to a death camp? Hannah van den Ende studied the experiences of 534 Dutch-Jewish doctors who wrestled with this type of ethical dilemma during WWII.  

Studying HIV-related stigma in virtual reality

Stigmatising behaviour is often unconscious. People don't usually realise that they treat HIV patients differently. But the consequences are real. Henna Toppenberg and her PhD supervisor Rob Ruiter are using virtual reality to gain more insight into this behaviour so they can help bring about change.  

A Beginner's Guide to Dutch Academia

Detailed information on Dutch research and higher education can be found in  A Beginner's Guide to Dutch Academia. 

Hortense Jongen winner of The 2018 Dissertation Prize

The 2018 Dissertation Prize, this year awarded for the best doctoral dissertation from the inner city faculties, went to Hortense Jongen from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Her thesis is entitled: ‘Combating corruption the soft way: The authority of peer reviews in the global fight against graft.’

Select language

PhD at Utrecht University

Phd programmes.

At Utrecht University, earning a PhD is a hands-on process that involves relatively little coursework.

You will conduct research from day one, which will allow you to develop your own ideas within the research group's theme. You will remain in close contact with your supervisors throughout the programme.

All information for both prospective and current PhD students can be found in the PhD Manual (pdf).

About PhD Programmes

Interested in a PhD programme in Utrecht?

A partnership with impact: Anton de Kom University of Suriname

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Municipalities taking a different course in the reception and assistance of refugees

Work in process: Unearthing Meaning using Process Mining

“We should see workarounds as valuable feedback, rather than turning a blind eye”

PhD defence: Search for the Chiral Magnetic Effect with the ALICE detector

PhD defence: Petite proteins shaping cell membranes - Structural insights into the tetraspanin membrane-protein family

Phd defence: translocation of water and nutrients during growth and fructification of agaricus bisporus.

PhD Defense: Rebalancing treatment outcomes in rectal cancer

Phd defence: combining metal-metal and metal-ligand cooperativity homomultimetallic complexes of copper, iron and ruthenium.

Utrecht University Heidelberglaan 8 3584 CS Utrecht The Netherlands Tel. +31 (0)30 253 35 50

PhD in the Netherlands

Are you dreaming of pursuing a PhD in the vibrant and picturesque city of Amsterdam? Well, you’re in for a treat! This article will be your trusty guide to unraveling the mysteries of PhD programs in the Netherlands, particularly in Amsterdam while shedding light on scholarships and the application process. So, fasten your seatbelts, as we embark on this academic adventure through the land of tulips, canals, and world-class education.

Why Amsterdam for Your PhD?

Before we dive into the application process, let’s talk about why Amsterdam is a magnet for international students. Picture this: You, sipping Dutch coffee in a cozy café by a picturesque canal, surrounded by history and innovation. Amsterdam is a vibrant, multicultural hub where tradition meets modernity, making it the perfect backdrop for your academic journey.

PhD Programs in Amsterdam and Beyond

Amsterdam boasts several esteemed universities offering diverse PhD programs. The University of Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and the Amsterdam University Medical Centers are just a few names that come to mind. These institutions are renowned for their cutting-edge research and top-notch faculty.

But Amsterdam isn’t the only city with excellent academic offerings. The Netherlands, as a whole, is a hub for higher education. Universities like Leiden University, Utrecht University, and the University of Groningen also have thriving doctoral programs. It’s like having a bouquet of options; each flower is unique and beautiful in its own way.

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The Application Process of PhD in Holland

Now, let’s demystify the application process. Applying for a PhD in the Netherlands isn’t as complex as it might seem. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:

• Choose Your Program : First, decide on your field of study and find the program that suits your research interests.
• Contact a Supervisor : Reach out to potential supervisors who share your research passion. Their support is invaluable.
• Prepare Documents : Gather the required documents, including your CV, academic transcripts, and a research proposal.
• Apply Online : Most Dutch universities have online application portals. Complete your application form and submit your documents.
• Interview : If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview, which can be in person or via video call.
• Acceptance : Once accepted, you’ll receive a formal offer letter.
• Visa and Residence Permit : If you’re from outside the EU/EEA, you’ll need to arrange a visa and residence permit.
• Settle In : Arrive in the Netherlands, find accommodation, and embark on your academic journey!

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Financial support and social security in holland.

PhD students in the Netherlands, including international students, can access various forms of financial and social support from the Dutch government and institutions. Here are some of the key support mechanisms:

• PhD Scholarships: The Dutch government, along with Dutch universities and research institutions, offers a range of scholarships to support PhD students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses, and research-related costs. Examples include the Holland Scholarship, the Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorate, and various university-specific scholarships.
• Employee Status: In the Netherlands, PhD students are typically considered employees rather than traditional students. As such, they receive a monthly salary, which is often referred to as a “PhD salary” or “PhD stipend.” This salary includes social security contributions and may also provide for paid vacation days and other employment benefits.
• Healthcare : PhD students are required to have health insurance in the Netherlands. Depending on their circumstances, they may be eligible for subsidies or allowances to help cover the cost of health insurance premiums.
• Housing Allowances : In certain cases, particularly for those with lower incomes, PhD students may be eligible for housing allowances (huurtoeslag) to help with the cost of renting accommodation.
• Childcare Benefits : PhD students who have children may be eligible for childcare benefits (kinderopvangtoeslag) to assist with the cost of childcare services.
• Student Loans and Grants (DUO) : Some PhD students, particularly Dutch nationals, may be eligible for student loans and grants administered by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (DUO). These loans are typically low-interest and can help with living expenses.
• Mental Health Support : Dutch universities often provide mental health services and counseling to support the well-being of their students, including PhD candidates.
• International Student Services : Universities in the Netherlands have international student offices that offer guidance on visas, residence permits, and other administrative matters. They also provide support for international students adapting to life in the Netherlands.

It’s important to note that the availability and eligibility criteria for these forms of support may vary depending on the university, the specific PhD program, and the student’s personal circumstances. International PhD students are encouraged to check with their university’s international office and the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) for the most up-to-date information on available support and requirements.

Fully Funded PhDs in the Netherlands: A Reality

Now, let’s talk about everyone’s favorite topic – funding! The Netherlands offers numerous scholarships for international students, making your dream of a fully funded PhD a reality. Here are a few options:

• Holland Scholarship : This scholarship is available to non-EEA students and covers tuition fees and living expenses.
• Erasmus Mundus : If you’re looking for an international experience, Erasmus Mundus offers joint PhD programs with generous funding.
• Netherlands Fellowship Programmes (NFP) : Funded by the Dutch government, NFP provides scholarships to professionals from selected countries.
• University Scholarships : Most Dutch universities have their own scholarship programs, so be sure to check the options available at your chosen institution.

Here are the complete list of fully funded PhD programs in the Netherlands:

• PhD Positions at Delft University of Technology
• Funded PhD Positions at the University of Amsterdam
• Fully Funded PhD at Erasmus University Rotterdam
• Fully funded PhD Positions at the University of Twente
• Doctoral fully funded Positions at the Eindhoven University
• Fully Funded PhD Positions and PhD Scholarships at University of Groningen
• Fully Funded PhD Positions at Maastricht University
• Fully Funded PhD at Leiden University
• Fully Funded PhD at Tilburg University
• Fully Funded PhD at Radboud University
• Fully Funded PhD Positions at Utrecht University
• Fully Funded PhD Positions at Wageningen University

PhD student salary in the Netherlands

PhD student salaries in the Netherlands are generally modest but sufficient to cover living expenses in this European country. The exact salary can vary depending on factors such as the university, funding source, and field of study. On average, a full-time PhD student in the Netherlands can expect to earn a gross monthly salary of around €2,395 to €2,922 before taxes.

It’s important to note that PhD positions in the Netherlands are typically considered as employment contracts, and students are regarded as employees rather than traditional students. This means they are entitled to certain employment benefits, including paid vacation days and contributions to social security. Additionally, many PhD positions in the Netherlands offer additional funding for research-related costs, such as attending conferences or conducting fieldwork. Some students may also have opportunities for part-time teaching or research assistant roles, which can supplement their income.

While the salary may not be exceptionally high, the Netherlands offers an excellent quality of life with its high standard of education, healthcare, and overall well-developed infrastructure. Many international students find the experience of pursuing a PhD in the Netherlands to be rewarding both academically and culturally.

FAQs – Your Burning Questions About PhD in Holland

1. Can I study online for a PhD in the Netherlands? Absolutely! Many Dutch universities offer online and hybrid PhD programs, allowing you to balance research with your life.

2. Which is the cheapest university in the Netherlands for international students? While tuition fees vary, public universities are generally more affordable than private ones. Universities like TU Delft and Eindhoven University of Technology offer reasonable fees.

3. How competitive is it to get a fully funded PhD in the Netherlands? Competition is fierce, but don’t let that discourage you. Craft a compelling application, reach out to potential supervisors, and explore various scholarship options to improve your chances.

In conclusion, embarking on a PhD journey in Amsterdam or any other Dutch city is a thrilling experience. With a simplified application process and a plethora of scholarships, it’s not just a dream but an achievable goal. So, pack your bags, put on your academic cap, and get ready to sail through the canals of knowledge in the Netherlands!

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• Study in Netherlands /

PhD in the Netherlands

• Updated on  
• Apr 24, 2023

A PhD or Doctor of Philosophy is the highest level of academic research degree you would want to obtain. It takes about 3-4 years to complete a full-time PhD degree. The Netherlands is one such country that offers PhD degrees in various subjects. It is home to some of the top universities for international students. The Netherlands attracts students from around the world because of its high standard of living. Science and business Degrees are the most popular courses here. This blog includes the top universities in the Netherlands, top PhD courses, eligibility criteria, admission process and more.

Also Read: PhD Admissions

This Blog Includes:

Why study phd in the netherlands, top 10 universities for phd in the netherlands, top phd courses in the netherlands, english language requirements, documents required, how to apply, cost of studying phd in the netherlands, cost of living .

• Affordable tuition fee is one of the top reasons why international students choose the Netherlands for higher studies. Public Universities in the Netherlands are much more affordable for international students than in the USA or the UK . The average tuition fees for a PhD degree ranges from EUR 6,000 – EUR 20,000 (~INR 5 – 17 Lakhs).
• You get work flexibility as the Netherlands is one of the countries with a 4-days a week work culture.
• The Netherlands is the best when it comes to a high standard of living, which makes it a happy and enjoyable place.

The table below mentions the top universities along with their rankings achieved by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022 and QS World University Rankings 2022 in the Netherlands that offer PhD courses to international students:

Top Universities in the Netherlands

The table below depicts popular PhD Courses offered at the top universities in the Netherlands:

Admission Requirements

• A master’s degree in a relevant subject, and
• Equivalent to that of the Netherlands from a recognised university

If you haven’t yet prepared for your IELTS exam, which is surely an important factor of studying abroad, join our Leverage Live classes and get trained by experts to score high.

• Official academic Transcripts including copies of secondary school diplomas, certificates and/or grade lists in English, French , German or Dutch
• Passport photocopy
• Updated CV /Resume
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores
• Letter of Recommendations
• A personal statement in English
• CV or resume (including two references)
• Motivation letter
• Sample of academic written work

You can call our Leverage Edu experts at 1800 572 000 to find out how the application process can be fast-tracked and streamlined to study in the Netherlands! Here’s a guide to give your application process a start:

• Call our Leverage Edu student counselors at 1800 572 000 to shortlist your courses with the help of our trusted AI Course Finder and select the respective PhD Course.
• The next step is to gather and compile all your documents like SOPs, essays, certificates and LORs, and exam scores like IELTS, TOEFL, etc. 
• After submitting your application and all the necessary documents, the experts will then start with the application process for accommodation, Student Visa, and scholarships / student loans . 
• It’s now time to wait for your offer letter, which can take around 4-6 weeks or more. Till then, start preparing to leave for the Netherlands.

The tuition cost for international students will vary as per the PhD Course selected by the students to study at the top universities in the Netherlands. The table given below highlights the average yearly tuition fees for PhD courses:

* The tuition fee will vary for different PhD courses at different universities in the Netherlands. Get in touch with our experts to know the exact cost of studying or tuition fees for your chosen course.

The table below mentions the average cost of studying in Holland , Netherlands for international students per month. Check out Leverage Edu’s Cost of Living Calculator to find out a detailed breakdown of living in different cities of the Netherlands.

Let’s Explore Student Life in the Netherlands

Social Sciences, Medical Sciences, Economics, Business and Psychology are some of the popular PhD courses to study in the Netherlands.

It will take about 4 years to complete a full-time PhD Course in the Netherlands.

Ph.D. candidates are usually paid EUR 2,266 – EUR 2,897 (INR 19,000 – 24,000) per month.

This was all about PhD in the Netherlands. If you have any questions or need help with your study abroad admissions, you can talk to our experts at 1800572000 .

Team Leverage Edu

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PhD in Netherlands: Top Universities in Netherlands for PhD, Scholarships for International Students, Cost of Studying PhD and Job Opportunities

PhD education Netherlands is a general choice for many international students looking to tap into this culture of open-mindedness, modernization and international exchange of ideas. Doing a PhD in the Netherlands permits international students to conduct autonomous research in the field of study under the supervision of skilled faculty at the university. At the end of research for a PhD in Netherlands, students present their paper or thesis in front of a panel of experts.

The majority of PhD students in the Netherlands have an employment contract with the institution where they will be conducting their research. A PhD in Netherlands for Indian students lasts for a minimum of 4 years. This is comparatively due to the employment status as a doctoral researcher and the additional teaching and directorial responsibilities. So, in this blog, we will be deliberating PhD programs in Netherlands, PhD scholarships in the Netherlands and much more about PhD education Netherlands.

Why Study PhD Programs in Netherlands?

All PhD programs in Netherlands are part of a graduate school or research school. Research schools are partnerships between multiple research universities and research institutes, while graduate schools are organised within universities. The following benefits of PhD in Holland are:

• Coursework is Limited: PhD Education Netherlands is a research-only program. Some universities in Netherlands for PhD have started doctoral schools, which require students to take several courses. Some of these courses are linked to:
• research skills
•  others are associated with preferred field of study.
•   Dutch PhD is highly regarded: Study PhD in Netherlands is highly regarded because of the high academic standards. Once your thesis is permitted for publication, students will attend the event of their research and be awarded the PhD at a rite immersed in tradition.
• People Treat their PhD Like a Job: International students who apply for PhD in Netherlands treat their PhD like a job with comparatively steady hours. It may also be a requirement that you are in your office between firm blocks of time. University buildings incline to have opening and closing hours.
• You Are a University Employee: Getting hired as a university employee is relatively common when your PhD is funded by a research project. There are many benefits to being hired as a university employee, including employee protection, social security, building up retirement savings etc.

Top Universities in Netherlands for PhD

A doctoral program in the Netherlands is a research-focused third-cycle qualification, as defined by the Bologna process. There are various universities offering PhD programs in Netherlands, and some of them are:

•       University of Amsterdam
•       University of Groningen
•       Maastricht University
•       Radboud University
•       Leiden University
•       Delft University of Technology

So, these are some of the universities in Netherlands for PhD programs, Let’s know it in detail.

1. University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam’s thriving PhD program provides the excellent groundwork for engaging in high-quality teaching and research. Research accepted by the UvA’s academic community ranks among the best globally. The university seeks to bid on an inspiring international educational environment where staff and international students can optimally advance their talents.

2. University of Groningen

The Groningen Graduate School bids an excellent program for postgraduate study at the University of Groningen. The students are offered a comprehensive PhD training program, including the career outlooks series, which helps students prepare for further career opportunities. The researchers will receive professional guidance from their promotor and supervisor. 

3. Maastricht University

At Maastricht University, PhD students are respected as full-fledged research community members. There are three ways to get a PhD degree at the university, i.e., enrol in a PhD training program, apply for a paid PhD position, obtain external funding, & pitch your idea. The PhD programs mainly focus on education, training and supervision to empower students to become excellent researchers. They will also have the opportunity to progress a broad range of academic skills.

4. Radboud University

The Radboud University offers varied courses for PhD students to advance scientific skills and personal effectiveness and development. The research profile of Radboud University has two primary constituents: an academic and a societal profile. The academic profile covers the academic corrections in which the university is involved and the sub-disciplines in which it excels. The societal profile covers the societal themes the university is associated with through its academic research.

5. Leiden University

It is the best university for PhD in Netherlands for international students. The Leiden University PhD program focuses on PHd students who dedicate a particular work time to scientific research on the theme of their professional practice. The centre helps them advance research plans, provide training, confirm that their study is in unity with the disciplines and graduate schools, and relates to the research of a potential supervisor.

6. Delft University of Technology

TU Delft Graduate School helps and trains doctoral students to become highly qualified, autonomous, leading researchers and skilled professionals. The PhD program is essential for preparing for the doctorate and your future career. It also ensures and enhances the growth of scientific quality along with the needed skill for interpersonal skills. After completing the PhD program, you will be awarded a Doctoral Education Certificate at the PhD Thesis Defence ceremony.

Suggested: Cheap Universities in Netherlands

Eligibility Criteria & Admission Requirements for Universities in Netherlands for PhD

To get admission to universities in Netherlands for PhD, international students need to fulfil the criteria and admission requirements. The following criteria are:

•       Master’s Degree
•       English Proficiency Test
•       Netherlands Student Visa
•       Additional Requirements

These are some of the PhD requirements Netherlands that students need to follow to get admission efficiently. Let’s know it in detail:

1. Master’s Degree

For a PhD in Netherlands, a standard necessity for PhD admission is holding a master’s degree in a relevant subject area. Due to Dutch PhD researchers’ students may also be required to experience other application processes and submit more documents than a distinctive PhD student.

2. English Proficiency Test

Being an international student, one needs to submit an English language test score to do PhD in Holland. It includes IELTS or TOEFL exam. The minimum score for the IELTS exam is 6.5, and the TOEFL minimum score is 90 (Internet Based).

3. Netherlands Student Visa

An international student who wants to do PhD in the Netherlands and outside the European Union and European Free Trade Area needs to apply for an MVV Netherlands student visa .

Documents Required for PhD in Netherlands for Indian Students

There are some essential documents required for PhD from Netherlands the following documents are:

•       Official academic transcripts including copies of secondary school diplomas and other certificates.
•       Valid Passport
•       Letter of Recommendations
•       SOP
•       Sample of academic written work
•       Updated CV (Including two references)

Application Process for Universities in Netherlands for PhD

Admission criteria for PhD positions are demanding, and potential students must have a solid background in the theory and techniques of their field and a recognised master’s degree. Admission for PhD in the Netherlands for international students involves various steps, which are discussed below:

1. Before getting enrolled for PhD in Netherlands, find a supervisor in your area of study from the college/ university that you want to apply for.

2. Once the supervisor agrees to support you as your guide for the PhD program, you will be required to submit an official application to the university.

3. After that, you may be asked to submit some essential documents, including your CV, contact details, personal statement, research proposal, transcripts and references.

4. Prepare a research proposal; it holds the key in the application process for PhD programs.

5. Submit a document of personal statement mentioning the reason for pursuing PhD program, what appeals you to the subject area and how your studies & work experience helped you to take up PhD education

6. Ensure that the references you have should be valid, as all the programs will ask for referees who can present details about your academic abilities and motivation.

7. In other cases, maybe the referee can be asked to provide a letter of reference in their own words.

Cost of Studying PhD in Holland

To study PhD in education in Netherlands includes the tuition cost & cost of living for international students.

Average Tuition Fees for PhD in Netherlands

The tuition fees will vary as per the PhD Course selected by the students to study at the top universities in the Netherlands. The average cost of studying PhD in the Netherlands is 6000 EUR - 20,000 EUR.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Netherlands includes various expenses such as:

Suggested: Cost of Living in Netherlands

PhD Scholarships in Netherlands for International Students

For PhD scholarships in Netherlands, there are 3 ways to fund PhD studies:

1. Fellowship or Grant: Most students interested in doing a PhD from Netherlands find funding in the form of fellowship or grant. After finding a fellowship, you will need to find a supervisor at a research institution willing to support you.

2. Sponsored by your Employer: Sometimes, it happens when you can afford to study PhD part-time while working. If you and your sponsor are interested in this option, you should contact the institution of your choice.

3. Employed by an Institution: It is one of the most preferred options by a student in the Netherlands to have an employment agreement with the institution where they will be conducting their research.

Career Options after PhD in Netherlands

After completing PhD in Netherlands, international students will need to apply for an Orientation Year residence permit. The student must be registered in the Personal Records Database, have a Citizen Service Number, and pay a fee of 174 EUR to be in the country for more than one year. Apart from it, students can also apply for long term residence in the Netherlands. Some of the career options after the PhD program are:

The Netherlands holds the research achieved by its universities in high esteem, and the country and its academics have an outstanding track record in world research. As a doctoral graduate from a Dutch university, you’ll be a researcher. So if that sounds great to you, connect with our Yocket professional and get guidance for your further career aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions about PhD in Netherlands

How long does it take to complete a PhD in the Netherlands?

It will take around 4 years to complete a full-time PhD Course in the Netherlands.

How much are PhD candidates paid in the Netherlands?

PhD candidates are usually paid 2,266 – 2,897 EUR per month.

What are the popular PhD courses to study in the Netherlands?

Some of the popular PhD courses to study are: 1. Economics 2. Business & Psychology 3. Medical Sciences 4. Social Sciences

Is PhD free in the Netherlands?

PhD students in the Netherlands are known to be “university employees” and therefore get a salary to account for their research. Therefore, there are no normal tuition fees for doctoral candidates.

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Doctoral school

MD/PhD programme (Amsterdam UMC/VU)

Difference between md/phd students amsterdam umc/uva and amsterdam umc/vu.

An MD/PhD student combines the Master and PhD within a formalized study arrangement

For Amsterdam UMC/VU students Amsterdam UMC/VU offers an MD/PhD programme. Find more information below

Note: At Amsterdam UMC/UvA the definition of an MD-PhD programme is different. For Amsterdam UMC/UvA this programme is offered in the form of a scholarship. This MD/PhD scholarschip is only accesible for Amsterdam UMC/UvA students

For Whom is the MD/PhD trajectory Amsterdam UMC/VU meant?

for Excellent students from the faculty of medicine VU Amsterdam

Aim of the programme

Engage as a medical master student in a PhD research track, follow both a medical and a research training and gain access to the courses and support offered by the coordinator of the MD/PhD programme

The aim of the programme is to encourage students to develop their talents in the field of medical scientific research and to prepare for a career as an academic physician-scientist

Outstanding medical students with a strong commitment to research showing a strong performance during their scientific internship are occasionally offered a PhD position by their supervisors. If funding of the research project is available, the MD/PhD programme facilitates these students to combine the PhD project with their master's degree in medicine. The MD/PhD programme has been in place since September 2015

The programme does not offer a pre-defined structure or timeline, however individual trajectories are planned with each student, appropriate to (the phase of) the research, the master’s programme and according to the wishes of the student. Guidance, small grants for conference attendance, support, and elective workshops are offered

Master's degree

MD/PhD students are required to obtain their master’s degree before the thesis defence. When you obtain your master’s degree, you are no longer an MD/PhD student

Application

• Contact the coordinator of the Amsterdam UMC VU MD/PhD programme to present and discuss your plans
• An interview will be planned to evaluate selection criteria and determine if registration is possible

Programme coordinator of the MD/PhD programme is dr. Inge van Wijk, coordinator of talent programmes in the master's study of medicine, working in the Department of Pediatrics of Amsterdam UMC and the Institute for Education and Training of the faculty of medicine, VU Amsterdam

In case you have any questions, send an email to:  [email protected]

Back to "PhD Trajectory"

Scientists went on a hunt for the elusive colossal squid — and brought cruise ship tourists with them

• Kolossal hopes to film a colossal squid in its natural habitat, the waters around Antarctica.
• The squid is large but elusive and difficult to study since it lives thousands of feet underwater.
• Using Antarctic tourist boats made searching for the squid far more cost-effective.

Over the course of four trips, tourists on an Antarctic cruise ship watched researchers lower a camera into the frigid, icy waters of the Southern Ocean. They had the same question every day: "Did you find it yet?"

The scientists were searching for the colossal squid, an evasive cephalopod that can weigh 1,100 pounds. Though fishing boats have found a handful of complete and partial specimens, researchers have had difficulty finding one in the wild.

Matthew Mulrennan hopes to change that with Kolossal, the nonprofit he founded to film a colossal squid in its natural habitat. The goal is to learn basic information about the sea animal , like how it hunts and looks in different life stages.

"I always like to say that it's an oversize poster species for how little we know about the ocean and how little we've explored it," he told Business Insider.

In 2022 and 2023, Mulrennan assembled a team of scientists to attempt to get footage of the squid aboard the Antarctic tourist cruises. Though he estimates the endeavors cost $500,000 in total, it was far cheaper than hiring a research vessel.

The cruise ship holds 200 passengers, each paying upwards of $6,720. While they expected lectures from geologists, marine biologists, and other experts, they didn't necessarily know there would be a full research station aboard.

The team's underwater camera filmed dozens of Antarctic species, including one squid resembling a young colossal.

The enigmatic colossal squid

Measuring about 46 feet with its tentacles spread out, the colossal squid is nevertheless hard to spot.

Adults live over 3,000 feet deep in the waters around Antarctica, putting them beyond the reach of even the most skilled technical divers. Submersible vehicles may scare them off.

Many of the known specimens were found in the stomach of sperm whales, whose diets may be 77 percent colossal squid. Only 12 complete specimens have been found, according to a 2015 study .

"There isn't that much that's known about it because it's so elusive," according to Myrah Graham, a master's student at Memorial University's Marine Institute who accompanied Mulrennan on one of the expeditions.

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They're also difficult to preserve for long-term study, and so a lot of the fundamentals about them aren't known, including how old they get, details of their reproduction , and the population size, Graham said.

"The bottom line is we just need to film it, and we can learn a lot off of just brief interactions," he said.

Combining science and tourism

Mulrennan first became interested in colossal squids in 2007 when he was studying abroad at the University of Auckland. Researchers dissected what he called a "monster specimen" captured by a fishing vessel.

Though Mulrennan wasn't involved in the dissection, he was hooked on learning more about the sea animal. In 2015, he made a goal to film the colossal squid within 10 years.

Chartering research vessels can cost tens of thousands of dollars a day. Similar expeditions have cost as much as $8 million, Mulrennan said.

Eventually, Mulrennan hit on the idea of getting on Intrepid Travel's Ocean Endeavor, a cruise ship that would already be traveling to Antarctica .

Once aboard, curious cruise-goers would stop by and watch brittle stars and other deep-sea life captured by an underwater camera . The passengers started referring to the researchers as the "squid heads," Mulrennan said.

"You're getting this kind of privileged access immediately on board, Graham said. "One of the comments I got the most was, 'Oh, I wish I had gone to school for marine biology .'"

In order to accommodate the cruise passengers' itineraries of seeing penguins and seals — what Mulrennan called "air-breathing cuties" — the researchers had to pull all-nighters when the ship was in the deep ocean .

Sometimes the passengers would complain about the smelly toothfish bait the scientists used to lure the squid. The researchers had to be flexible about lowering the underwater camera, especially when the waves churned ice nearby.

Once, the researchers had to take down their whole research station so passengers could use the nearby door for a polar plunge.

"You get 150 half-naked guests walking out doing vodka shots in your research station," Mulrennan said. "It's like bizarre stuff that can't happen on a normal vessel."

The future of the colossal squid search

During 58 days at sea, Kolossal's camera captured over 80 marine species , including giant volcano sponges, dragonfish, icefish, Antarctic sun stars, and — maybe — a colossal squid.

"We're not claiming this is the colossal squid, but it's also not not a colossal squid," Mulrennan said of footage of a translucent squid that the camera filmed.

Based on assessments of experts who have seen the footage, it's impossible to tell whether the animal is a young colossal squid or a full-grown glass squid.

Graham said she thinks it shows they're on the right track.

Mulrennan hopes to return to Antarctica during the next season, just in time for his self-imposed deadline of finding the colossal squid by 2025.

"We're closing in on a hundred years of our interaction with the species," Mulrennan said, "and we still know so little about it."

Watch: Dumbo octopus 'wows' researchers during deep-sea expedition

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Engineering student works to create safer ground transportation

Sai bonthu is a doctoral candidate at the university of cincinnati.

Ground transportation has a substantial impact on the daily lives of humans. Sai Bonthu, doctoral student of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Cincinnati, is working to develop a product that has the potential to accurately reduce traffic crashes.

Currently, he is working on a grant with the Ohio Department of Transportation and was named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by the College of Engineering and Applied Science. 

Why did you choose UC? What drew you here?

Sai Bonthu is working with the Ohio Department of Transportation to create a product that has the potential to accurately reduce traffic crashes. Photo/provided

Coming to UC was a relatively easy decision for me. After completing my master's in electrical engineering at Akron in 2017, I was hired as an electrical engineer at Cincinnati Incorporated, making UC a natural destination for my PhD. 

With automation being the core of the machining world, I wanted to utilize the opportunity of pursuing a PhD at UC under the guidance of esteemed professors in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. 

Doctors Arthur Helmicki and Victor Hunt have advised me during my studies and as I have worked closely with them at the UC Infrastructure Institute (UCII) , they have demonstrated extensive experience in applying control systems and machine learning algorithms to real-world applications such as smart mobility and civil infrastructure monitoring. 

Why did you choose your field of study?

Electrical engineering draws certain characteristics from individuals pursuing the highest level of the study. Back in 2012, I earned my bachelor's in electrical and electronics engineering. However, it alone wasn't enough for me to standout in a competitive environment. In a discussion with my sister, I realized that there weren't many opportunities to learn the toughest part of electrical engineering — power electronics and electric motor drives. That's how I got into a master's program at Akron and then successfully landed a job in Cincinnati. From then on, I wanted to earn a PhD. UC has a wide range of opportunities to dig deeper into electrical engineering and apply my skills towards researching something more meaningful to me and the community I live in. 

Professor Helmicki (my research adviser) and I have secured a National Science Foundation (NSF) Innovation Corps (I-Corps) award followed by a research grant from the Ohio Department of Transportation. These awards empowered me to pursue an exciting research project with a real-world case that transformed my life in the last few years. I'm also grateful to the consistent support that I've received from my superiors at Cincinnati Incorporated and HDS Global to pursue my dream while working full-time. 

Briefly and simply describe your research work. What problems do you hope to solve?

Sai Bonthu is working with the Ohio and U.S. Departments of Transportation on his PhD research. Photo/Kristian McNeal, The Gaskins Foundation

Ground transportation has one of the most significant impacts on human life. According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, traffic fatalities were 10.5% higher than the previous year at 42,915. During the NSF I-Corps program, our team conducted more than 175 stakeholder interviews and converted raw transportation data into inputs for generating real-time safety responses in traffic operations as well as producing insights for transportation planners. Transportation planners and engineers have identified specific transportation problems such as an increase in traffic crashes and the lack of accuracy validation in road user detection, classification and localization of vulnerable road users. 

My PhD research focuses on the development of a product that can potentially accurately reduce traffic crashes. The outcomes will benefit UC Digital Technology Solutions, public safety and planning teams to better understand road user trajectories and the capabilities of existing and new solutions to improve road user experience on campus. Furthermore, one of the research outcomes to test Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) alerts is prioritized by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to improve safety nationwide. 

What are some of the most impactful experiences during your time at UC?

Working as an entrepreneurial lead for the NSF Innovation Corps award and as a project lead for ODOT's Student Transportation Advancement Research (STAR) have been my most impactful experiences at UC. 

While the NSF I-Corps program expanded my network into the transportation ecosystem and taught me about real-world challenges, the ODOT STAR project has provided me with an opportunity to develop and execute solutions to identified challenges. 

As part of these projects, I've attended several national and international conferences to interview folks who are in the middle of dealing with real-world problems. I attended the American Association for State Highway Transportation Officials annual meeting in 2022, as well as several ITS conferences. FInally, one of the highlights of my time at UC was my visit to the Netherlands for the 2023 TRAIL International PhD Autumn School on Cycling in Cities. 

I had the opportunity to develop and demonstrate Connected and Automated Vehicle Education lesson plans for K-12 STEM educators. This was through the support of my research team, Mary Welsh Schlueter at Partnership for Innovation in Education, FHWA Saxton Lab, and ODOT/DriveOhio technical advisory committee. 

What are a few of your accomplishments of which you are most proud?

Sai Bonthu placed third in UC's Elevator Pitch Competition. Photo/provided

Publishing my research work at the UCII is definitely at the top of my list. Beyond that, winning third prize in UC's one-minute elevator pitch competition validated my ability to translate society and market needs into a value proposition for a new product idea. Finally, participating in numerous tradeshows, international conferences and expos to network, interview and learn from experts in the industry has been the greatest accomplishment during my PhD program at UC. 

What are your plans after earning your degree?

I will graduate in August of 2024 with my PhD. My doctoral studies at UC and the experience through the ODOT STAR research project have dramatically changed my perspective towards sustainable and smart transportation. I'm going to continue exploring pathways toward sustainable and active transportation through a technology lens. I strongly believe automation is possible at any level in any application, but autonomous vehicles (e.g., self-driving robot taxis) are not ready to completely blend into our traffic. Meanwhile, connected vehicles are here to stay. In the near future, all vehicles will communicate with one another and the infrastructure in real-time, causing trans-disciplinary impacts on e-commerce, supply chain, daily deliverance systems, decarbonization, circular economy, uncrewed vehicles (ground and aerial) and sustainable multi-modal mobility. I'm hopeful that I'll be uniquely skilled and positioned to address important issues in such an evolving and complex ecosystem. 

Do you have any other hobbies or experiences you'd like to share?

Like many other South Asians, I love cricket. I've played in the Midwest Cricket Tournament since I moved to the U.S. in 2013. At UC, I currently serve as the president of the UC Cricket Club and represented the club as captain and wicket-keeper/batter between 2021-22. We've made it to the finals of MCT Division II 35 over tournament in 2021, and that is one of the most memorable experiences for me during my time at UC. Beyond that, I've helped out Tri-State Trails, a nonprofit to connect people and places with a regional trail and bikeway network, as a trail monitoring intern in the summer of 2023, and it was a great experience to learn about the active transportation network in the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky/Indiana area. 

Interested in engineering graduate programs?

Check out the engineering graduate programs offered at the College of Engineering and Applied Science. 

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Ground transportation has a substantial impact on the daily lives of humans. Sai Bonthu, a doctoral candidate of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Cincinnati, is working to develop a product that has the potential to accurately reduce traffic accidents. Currently, he is working on a grant with the Ohio Department of Transportation and was named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by the College of Engineering and Applied Science.

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