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Study PhD in Spain

Being a PhD student in Spain is a wonderful experience with countless opportunities to grow, learn, and advance professionally. There is a wide range of exceptional PhD programs in Spain in any area of research. Studying PhD in Spain will place you in a multicultural environment where the climate is warm, the academic quality is exceptional, and the opportunities to succeed in your professional life are endless.

Here’s everything you need to know about Doctoral/PhD degrees in Spain:

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PhD Programs in Spain

PhD programs in Spain are plentiful, comprehensive, and efficient when it comes to development and training. Since Spain is a popular destination to pursue studies, many international students choose Spain as their PhD destination. 

Spanish universities feature extensive PhD programs, and they are esteemed for their teaching, innovation, and research. Spanish universities’ doctoral colleges or research institutes offer PhD programs for interested PhD candidates. Whether you are interested in the sciences, arts and humanities, health sciences, social sciences and law, or technological sciences, you will find anything of your preference in Spain. 

Universities in Spain for PhD

Here are the top universities in Spain offering PhD programs include: 

• Autonomous University of Barcelona (65 PhD degree programs)
• Pompeu Fabra University (9 PhD degree programs)
• University of Barcelona (50 PhD degree programs)
• Complutense University of Madrid (55 PhD degree programs)
• University of Navarra (23 PhD degree programs)
• Autonomous University of Madrid (42 PhD degree programs)
• University of Valencia (61 PhD degree programs)
• University of Deusto (8 PhD degree programs)
• University of Salamanca (40 PhD degree programs)
• University Carlos III of Madrid (21 PhD degree programs)
• University of Granada (28 PhD degree programs)
• University of Zaragoza (47 PhD degree programs)

Can I Get an Online PhD Degree in Spain?

Although PhD candidates are usually more in favor of undertaking their doctoral studies on campus, some universities offer online PhD in Spain. Usually, online PhD degrees in Spain are offered by private or international higher education institutions. Public universities in Spain generally only offer in-person doctoral degrees. It will be easier for you to find an in-person accredited PhD program in Spain than an online PhD program. 

How Much Does a PhD Program Cost in Spain?

Tuition fees in Spain are set on a pay-per-credit basis, which means the number of ECTS credits a program has is multiplied by the cost of one credit. The cost per credit for PhD programs can go up to €55 (or lower). 

PhD programs in Spain are divided into two stages, and it is only during the first phase (first year) that students have to undertake credit courses (60 ECTS). The second phase (the subsequent years of the PhD program) focuses on research and writing the thesis. 

This means the cost of PhD in Spain, for the first year only, can go up to €3,300 (or lower). The other academic years students spend researching and writing their thesis are way cheaper because you only have to pay for supervision, continual assessment, and additional administrative costs. The Autonomous University of Barcelona, for example, only charges around €550 per year for supervision, assessment, administrative fees, and other specific services.

Generally, the cost of PhD in Spain depends on factors like university, research discipline, and the student’s country of residence. Usually, non-EU/EEA students pay higher fees compared to national or EU/EEA students. 

PhD Scholarships in Spain for International Students

It is possible to undertake a funded PhD in Spain. Many prospective PhD candidates apply for PhD scholarships in Spain, and there are even options for international students. PhD scholarships in Spain are offered by the Spanish Ministry of Education and Professional Training. Individual Spanish universities also offer grants and financial aid for doctoral programs. Universities usually list the funding options on their websites. 

Can I Get a PhD in Spain in English?

Obtaining an English PhD in Spain is possible but not as common as Spanish-taught PhD programs. Although there are universities that offer English-taught PhD programs in Spain, the majority of them are in Spanish, which means finding the perfect English PhD program in Spain will not be easy, but not impossible either. 

Some universities offer programs that are bilingual or even multilingual. For example, the PhD programs in Communication, Law, and History (to name a few) at Pompeu Fabra University use Catalan, Spanish, and English as the medium of instruction during training activities. On the other hand, the PhD program in Information and Communication Technologies at the same university is taught entirely in English. 

How Long is a PhD Program in Spain?

The duration of a PhD program in Spain is approximately three years of full-time study. Some may extend their PhD studies in Spain for two more years if initially approved by the Academic Commission of the university. Part-time PhD programs usually take around five years to complete. 

PhD Structure in Spain

A PhD program in Spain is divided into the first cycle, which comprises training courses, and the second cycle, which focuses on research and writing towards a dissertation. During a PhD program, candidates must attend training sessions, seminars, and a wide range of other academic activities. 

Supervision 

PhD candidates have two mentors that help them throughout the doctoral program: 

• Mentor: A PhD holder responsible for monitoring the interaction between the candidate and the Academic Commission. 
• Thesis Director: A PhD holder (may or may not be the same person as the mentor) who must have accredited research experience. The thesis director is responsible for planning training activities for the candidate and overseeing thesis matters.
• Thesis Co-Director (When Applicable) : When the thesis has a multidisciplinary nature. 

Admission Requirements

In order to gain admission in PhD programs in Spain, prospective students must have a bachelor’s and a master’s degree relevant to the PhD field of research (300 ECTS credits in total). Universities also accept students with equivalent degrees for as long as they correspond to a total of 300 ECTS credits. Individual universities have the right to add additional selection/admission criteria for specific doctoral programs in Spain. 

How to Apply 

The application for PhD in Spain should be made directly to the university, doctoral college, or university institute of your choice. Prospective PhD candidates in Spain must usually submit a research proposal, CV, reference, etc. As part of the admission process, students must also attend an interview.

You may have to submit the following documents. 

• Certified copy of your valid passport. 
• Passport-sized recent photographs.
• Curriculum vitae (CV).
• Attested photocopies of academic degree certificates.
• Attested photocopies of academic records, such as subjects and qualifications.
• Proof of language proficiency (depending on the medium of instruction).

Since starting dates and application deadlines vary depending on the university, all information regarding application deadlines and university-specific application documents can be found on the respective university’s website. 

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IRB Barcelona International PhD Fellowship 2024

For the 2024-2025 academic year, IRB Barcelona is offering up to 9 PhD fellowships for young scientists from the national and international community who wish to undertake a doctoral degree in biomedicine. We encourage applications from highly motivated graduates with outstanding qualifications in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, pharmacology, computational biology or related fields. Successful candidates will join research groups headed by top-level scientists and will carry out their research in cutting-edge fields of biomedicine in a stimulating environment.

The following will be offered in this call:

• Up to 9 FPI positions associated with the “Proyectos de Generación de Conocimiento 2023” Call (funded by the Agencia Estatal de Investigación AEI- MICINN).

Check out IRB Barcelona groups participating:

• Dr. Cristina Mayor-Ruiz - Targeted protein degradation and drug discovery
• Dr. Patrick Aloy - Structural Bioinformatics and Network Biology  
• Dr. Lluís Ribas - Gene Translation Laboratory  
• Dr. Alejo E. Rodriguez-Fraticelli -  Quantitative Stem Cell Dynamics
• Dr. Raúl Méndez -  Translational Control of Cell Cycle and Differentiation
• Dr. Alexandra Avgustinova - Pediatric Cancer Epigenetics
• Dr. Eduard Batlle - Colorectal Cancer Laboratory 
• Dr. Antoni Riera - Research Unit on Asymmetric Synthesis
• Dr. Ana Victoria Lechuga-Vieco - Mitochondrial Biology and Tissue Regeneration

ONLINE APPLICATION

Eligibility

• studies that lead to an official Spanish (or from another country of the European Higher Education Area) university degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Physics, Medicine, Chemistry or related fields and that have 300 credits (ECTS), of which at least 60 must correspond to master level.
• a degree in a non-Spanish university not adapted to the European Higher Education Area and that gives access to doctoral studies in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Physics, Medicine, Chemistry or related fields in Spain.
• Candidates are selected exclusively on merit, on the basis of their curricula. The academic grades and curriculum vitae of each applicant are evaluated, as well as recommendation letters and a motivation letter. No selection criteria for positive or negative discrimination are applied.

How to apply

Applicants should complete and submit the online form . More information regarding the application can be found in the “Useful Information” tab.

Those applying also for the IRB-TARGET programme need only submit a single application, which will be considered by the different calls.

Applicants will be asked to upload the following documents in English: *Please note that all the documents provided should be in PDF format .

• Curriculum vitae specifying education and experience, including career breaks, and supported by pertinent documents.
• A motivation letter (maximum 2 pages) highlighting your research experience and academic achievements and explaining why you are interested in IRB Barcelona and in a particular research group.
• A scanned copy of the student’s certified Academic Record. These documents must show the grades attained in exam periods. If the certified academic records are not in Spanish or English applicants should also attach a translation in one of the above mentioned languages.
• Any additional files considered relevant to the application
• Two recommendation letters from university lecturers or scientists with who the applicant has studied or worked. Candidates are responsible for ensuring that referees submit these letters. Applications not supported by these letters will not be eligible. If the applicant has previously worked with a researcher at IRB Barcelona, any letter of reference from said person cannot be included as one of the two reference letters requested. However, it can be sent to provide additional support for the application.

Please indicate the Research Node(s) to which you wish to apply (up to 3). Details of the available research projects are provided in Annex 1 of the 2024 call IRB Barcelona International PhD Fellowship Programme ( Useful information for applicants section).

Research Nodes:

•     Chemical and Structural Biology
•     Cell Pathophysiology
•     Computational Biology
•     Invertebrate Models of Disease
•     Preclinical Models of Cancer
•     Preclinical Models of Disease

More information on the research activities of each group can be found on the IRB Barcelona webpage .

For more information, please, contact [email protected] .

Selection procedure

An Evaluation Committee will appraise eligible applications both in the remote evaluation stage and in the interview stage. This committee will include external members and representatives of group leaders at IRB Barcelona. The evaluation will be independent, impartial, objective and free of conflicts of interest, and the selection will be open, efficient, transparent, fair, and merit-based. The PhD Advisory Committee will oversee the remote and interview stages of the selection process. Applicants will receive continuous support from the Academic Office through the helpdesk (email, phone), which will notify them of the outcome of the preselection. The candidates with the highest scores will be invited to IRB Barcelona for an interview. Those who do not pass the threshold established will be excluded from further consideration. Candidates who do not pass this evaluation will be informed why and will be provided with the instructions to follow to start a redress procedure. Short-listed candidates will receive an invitation to a three-day interview process held at IRB Barcelona. Teleconference interviews will be used only for candidates with prior commitments that cannot be rearranged and that thus prevent them from travelling to Barcelona. Offers of admission will be made to the successful candidates shortly after the interview period. Candidates positively evaluated but with an insufficient score to receive a fellowship will be put on a reserve list to cover possible renunciations and future positions.

Call opening :  2 November 2023

Deadline for candidacies : 5 January 2024, 15:00 CET

Deadline for referees : 8 January 2024, 15:00 CET

Remote evaluation :  29 January 2024

Group Leader Panel presentations : 26 February 2024

Interviews at IRB Barcelona : 4-5-6 March 2024

Notification to candidates :  8 March 2024

Start date of fellowships:  from September 2024

Useful information for applications

2024 call IRB Barcelona International PhD Fellowship Programme

2024 Poster

IRB Barcelona International PhD Fellowship FAQs

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137 Top PhDs in Spain for 2023

There are 137 study programs available at 4 universities in Spain , according to data provided by Erudera.com.

Why should you study in Spain?

Spain is one of the world's top study destinations for international students and definitely a higher education paradise. In Spain, you will find countless prestigious and top-ranked universities , hundreds of specialized study programs to choose from, degrees that are valued globally, and affordable studies. Not to mention, Spain is a country with a unique culture, dynamic lifestyle, and many interesting places to explore during your studies here.

Pompeu Fabra University

University of Deusto

Polytechnic University of Catalonia

Autonomous University of Barcelona

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Animal medicine and health, animal production, antropología social y cultural, applied economics, biochemistry, molecular biology and biomedicine, biodiversity, biología celular, biología y biotecnología vegetal, bioquímica, biología molecular y biomedicina, biotechnology, biotecnología, cellular biology, ciencia política, políticas públicas y relaciones internacionales, ciencia de materiales, ciencia de los alimentos, ciencia y tecnología ambientales, cirugía y ciencias morfológicas, clinical and health psychology, cognitive science and language, communication and journalism, comparative, political and social history, computer science.

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PhD Handbook

PhD in Spain: A...

PhD in Spain: A Guide on PhD in Spain for International Students

Spain is perhaps the most interesting country in the world to get a PhD. It's also a great place to become a researcher, with world-class universities offering a wide variety of PhD programs in almost every field. If you, too, are planning to study PhD in Spain, there are many perks to expect in near future.

The first on the list is the quality of the education, some of the best universities in Europe, beautiful historic buildings, job opportunities, etc. In this article, we'll talk about some of the reasons why looking for PhD programs in Spain can be a career-shifting decision.

Let’s begin!

Why Study Phd in Spain?

Three of Spain’s cities have made it to the QS Best Student City Ranking 2023. This clearly, signifies the enthusiasm of international students to pursue their education in Spain. However, enthusiasm alone is not sufficient to choose this country, let’s explore the other features of this country.

• For centuries, Spain has been a country synonymous with sunshine, sangria, and siestas. But today, Spain is also known for being one of the best countries in the world to study in. It is a cheap place to relocate/learn and has world-class universities offering a wide variety of programs. It is very feasible and affordable for Indian students who want to study in Spain. The approximate cost of living for international students in Spain is 900-1,100 EUR.
• Getting a Spanish PhD, especially in the fields of arts, is a very prestigious achievement. Besides, Spain has had a substantial historical impact on this field. The country offers more than 76 courses in Spain. Some popular PhD courses are literature, philosophy, cultural studies, geography, history, and linguistics.
• The research environment in Spain is unique for pursuing PhD in Spain for international students. It provides you with access to the top universities and the most prestigious research centres and institutes in the world. The country offers more than 76 universities. They provide you with a unique chance to work with some of the world's leading experts and scholars.
• The country offers a range of benefits, from access to the best universities to access to the best teaching to a cheap cost of living. Additionally, you can enjoy a unique cultural experience while you study PhD in Spain.

Best Courses in Spain for International Students

With this information, next, let’s check out the top PhD programs in Spain.

Popular PhD Programs in Spain

The Spanish education system is one of the best in the world and is certainly one of the most affordable. The country offers a great variety of PhD programs in a wide range of academic fields. Whether you want to study at a university, a private college, or even a language school, you'll be able to find a PhD program that suits your needs at a price you can afford.

A full-time PhD program in Spain lasts for a maximum of three years, while you can do a part-time program for a maximum of five years. The academic commission of a university organises the PhD programs.

To study PhD in Spain program, a student will follow these two cycles/stages:

• The First Stage - It is for 60 credits and is concentrated on training the student.
• The Second Stage - It concentrates on the student writing and researching for the thesis.

Besides, the students can register for PhD programs in Spain in two ways:

• University Student - A standard university student like any other.
• University Student and research trainee - This category of student has additional rights.

Further, let’s check the PhD in Spain for international students specialisation options.

Specialisations for PhD in Spain for international students

With over 76 PhD specialisations, Spain is home to some of the world's best PhD programs. PhD in Spain for international students is also renowned for its quality, with many Spanish PhD graduates securing prestigious academic positions around the world. Here is a list of some of the top PhD specialisations in Spain, which are sure to get your curiosity piqued.

• Economics and Business
• Art History
• Environments Science and Technology
• Health Sciences
• Linguistics
• Cultural Studies

Top Universities in Spain for Masters

Next, let’s explore the universities in Spain for PhD.

Top 5 Universities for PhD in Spain

Some of the most prestigious universities if you want to get a PhD in Spain for international students:

• Pompeu Fabra University
• Universidad Autónoma de Madrid
• Autonomous University of Barcelona
• University of Navarra
• University of Barcelona

1.  Pompeu Fabra University

Spain is a country that has a lot to offer to the students, not only in terms of culture but also in terms of education. One of the best universities in Spain for PhD is Pompeu Fabra University, which is located in Barcelona.

This university offers an expansive variety of interesting programs in a number of fields, ranging from philosophy to political science and from mathematics to linguistics. The university has a long history, having been originally founded in Barcelona in 1857.

2.  Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

The main advantage of studying at the Autonomous University of Madrid is that you'll be living in of the most exciting cities in Europe. Madrid is a sprawling metropolis with great food, culture, and nightlife. Some of the very best universities in Spain for PhD can be seen, which means you'll have access to the brightest and sharpest minds in the world. It's a great place to get your education and make lifelong friends.

3.  Autonomous University of Barcelona

The Autonomous University of Barcelona, better known as UAB, is a public university located in the Spanish city of Barcelona. One of the largest universities in Spain, UAB offers over 350 undergraduate and graduate programs and serves over 45,000 students. UAB is also one of the most academically diverse universities in the world, with students and faculty representing over 130 countries. UAB was founded in 1450, making it one of the oldest universities globally.

4.  University of Navarra         

The University of Navarra is one of Spain's most prestigious and historic universities, and it was founded in 1254 and has been a central part of the academic landscape ever since.

The university's location in Pamplona, Spain's ancient capital city, means that it is ideally situated to study the country's history, culture, and language. It also offers a wealth of student life opportunities, including a student association, sports teams, and a language centre.

5.  University of Barcelona      

The University of Barcelona is among the most prestigious institutions in Spain and the best place to pursue a PhD in the country. With a world-class faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, the university offers a first-class education in a beautiful, Mediterranean setting.

The city of Barcelona is one of the most vibrant and lively cities in Europe, and the University of Barcelona is located right in the centre of the city and close to beaches, world-class museums, and exciting nightlife. The university also has campuses in Madrid, Valencia, and Zaragoza, so you can choose the location that is best for you.

Top 5 Cheap Universities in Spain

Application Process for PhD in Spain for International Students

To study PhD in Spain the application process can seem daunting and complicated at first, but there really is nothing to worry about. The process is quite simple and straightforward. All you need to do is get your CV and other relevant documents together, and then you’re ready to start the application process. The first thing you’ll need to do is to find a PhD program that matches your requirements and preferences. Then curate the following documents:

• Academic documents, such as certificates (for which you have your due credits), transcripts, and a CV/resume.
• Academic references like letters of recommendation are encouraged from one or two academics or relevant persons who have worked with you.
• A study visa is one of the most important documents without which you will not be granted admission.
• Every student that wants to study in Spain must have residence registration and be registered under Registro Central de Extranjeros within three months of their stay.
• Research proposal may be needed when applying to your college.
• Language certificate showcase the knowledge of the Spanish language as a 'professional skill.'

Cost of Studying in Spain

Now you know the document requirements to study PhD in Spain for international students. Next, let’s check the eligibility.

Eligibility to Study PhD in Spain

Following is the eligibility criteria to study PhD in Spain.

• You must hold a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree
• Your degree must be equivalent to 300 ECTS
• All registered qualifications must be recognized by the National Recognition Information Centre (NRIC) or the Spanish Embassy
• You must fulfil the basic Spanish Language requirements

Next, let’s check the duration of PhD programs in Spain.

Duration of PhD Programs in Spain

When studying for a PhD in Spain, each year is divided into two cycles: the first is a training phase, and the second is a research phase. Applications begin as early as January and can go on to July. Full-time courses go on for about three years, while part-time courses may go up to five years.

Structure of PhD in Spain

Doctoral programs can vary between universities and courses. Usually, pursuing a doctorate in Spain consists mainly of original research work, with some courses taught during the first year. You may also be expected or even invited to tutoring and teaching sessions during your PhD, which are limited to 40 hours per week. At the end of the course, you should have written a doctoral thesis that matches the requirements of the faculty.

Cost to Study PhD in Spain

Here is the cost of PhD in Spain. Let’s go through it and plan a budget accordingly:

What is the Cost of Living in Spain?

Next, let’s explore the scholarships to reduce the financial burden while pursuing PhD in Spain.

Scholarships for Phd in Spain for International Students

Spain is a country with an extensive history and culture. It is also a country with a lot of opportunities for education. You can get a PhD in Spain with scholarship options. Through scholarships in Spain, students can obtain an education at a reduced cost. This allows students to afford an education in a foreign country while still maintaining the budget.

Top Public Universities in Spain

Career Scope after PhD in Spain

If you want to find a career in Spain, a PhD could help you do just that. Studying for a PhD can help you learn a lot and open up a range of new career opportunities. You could become a teacher-researcher or chase your own research interests. Or you could use your PhD to help others, perhaps through a job in the education sector or as a career adviser.

Part-time Jobs in Spain for International Students

All this information can be intimidating for a student who is planning to study abroad for the first time. Therefore, if you need end-to-end guidance from our expert counsellors, choose Yocket Premium . This step will surely make your study abroad dream a success!

Frequently Asked Questions on PhD Programs In Spain

Are PhD students paid in Spain?

PhD students in Spain are not typically paid a salary for the time spent in school. Instead, students receive a stipend for each month of school, needed to complete their degree. Stipends are not very high but can amount to around 900 EUR per month. This can still be a large sum of money for a student living in Spain.

Is a PhD in Spain free?

PhDs in Spain are not inherently free, though there are many scholarships and grants that are offered to international students to study at a reduced price. You may even be able to get a fully funded PhD in Spain.

Can PhD students work in Spain?

International students may ask for a work permit that allows them to work up to 20 hours per week.

How should I prepare a cover letter after PhD in Spain?

When applying for a job, the most important thing you can do is prepare a compelling cover letter that highlights your skills, experiences, and why you're a good fit for the position. A good cover letter can increase your chances of getting an interview and can even help you get offers. Your cover letter must not be longer than a single page and should include a short introduction about yourself and why you're interested in this position, a clear statement about why you're the right fit for the position and the skills you bring to the job, and a short section at the end where you can share any additional information about yourself, such as additional experience or education.

What are the options to finance my education in Spain?

Spain poses a variety of options that can allow you to study there. These options ensure that you get a funded PhD in Spain. Some options to look at are: 1) Apprenticeships 2) Fellowships 3) Scholarships 4) Grants 5) Part-time jobs

Sumeet Jain

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PhD student - UCAM SENS & MMM Group

are recruiting a PhD student. Background In a collaborative project between the UCAM-SENS unit and the Multifunctional Molecular Material’s Group at University of Murcia (MMM), we aim to transform HealthCare

PhD Student (Ref 20/2024)

/sites/default/files/2022-07/crag-summary-2020-2021_0.pdf RESPONSIBILITIES: The Center for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) is looking for a PhD Student to be part of the group Epigenetics and

PhD candidate in Environmental hydrogeology

FieldGeosciencesEducation LevelMaster Degree or equivalent Skills/Qualifications Hold a BSc/MSc in Geology and fulfil the requirements to be admitted into the Earth Science PhD program at the Universitat de Barcelona. https

FAIROmics - PhD fellowship in Improving Predictive Power: Addressing Identifiability Challenges in Microbial Community Models.

Job description:Title: DC6, PhD fellowship in Improving Predictive Power: Addressing Identifiability Challenges in Microbial Community Models.Researcher profile: Doctoral candidate.Type of contract

PhD in Chemical Sciences and Chemical Engineering. Ref.: 2024-CDT-12499

22 Apr 2024 Job Information Organisation/Company University of Castilla- La Mancha Research Field Chemistry Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Country Spain Application Deadline 25 Apr 2024 - 23:59 (Europe/Madrid) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per...

PhD position in Language Sciences, in the area of language and psychosis, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona

position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description Position This position is for a PhD researcher funded by the Synergy project DELTA-LANG, ‘The Delta of Language’, awarded by the European

PhD Junior Researcher (Investigador Júnior) I-PI 30-24

funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by an EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description JOB POSITION: PHD JUNIOR

PHD STUDENT POSITION WITHIN THE COCOGEL PROJECT FRAMEWORK (DC11)

on hyperthermia including in vitro evaluation of antitumoral activity by MTT, Annexin / PI assay, migration assay by flow cytometry and confocal analysis. In collaboration with the University of Granada, the PhD

1 PhD Researcher

Requirements Qualification required for eligibility for the selection process (generic): PhD Participation requirements: Possess the training for the performance of function c) established in Order ECC/566/2015

PhD Vacancy - A transdisciplinary multi-scalar approach to foster mental health in Europe by means of nature-based therapies

The PhD project will be embedded within the HEurope GreenME project (September 2023-August 2027). All supervisors are involved in the project, which is coordinated by H. Cole and M. Triguero-Mas. GreenME

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Aljawaz Your guide to study abroad

Phd study in spain.

Nooreldeen Study in Spain Leave a comment

Are you looking for a historical destination to study in? Then, you should think of Spain, which is a popular international destination for studying with a range of opportunities available for PhD study in Spain.

Table of Contents

PhD Structure in Spain

The Spanish PhD follows well-defined guidelines on structure and supervision. The University’s Academic Committee organizes it. This committee is usually consisting of specific academics and researchers. 

Basically, full-time doctoral studies last in Spain for a duration of maximum three years.

It is also possible to extend the period of enrollment in the doctoral program for a further two years. However, the academic body must approve that. 

On the other hand, part-time PhD programs are for five years.

The main activity during the course of the doctoral is research. You may also need to attend training courses and seminars, and participate in other academic activities.

The Spanish doctorate has two stages (CICLOS):

• The first phase (during the first year) focuses on 60 ECTS credit courses.
• The second phase focuses on research and thesis writing.

How to study a PhD in Spain

The criteria for admission and acceptance can vary. However, the applications of the Spanish doctoral dissertation are general and relatively clear.

Application process

Doctoral applications in Spain are submitted directly to the potential academic committee of the University and/or doctoral program. In addition, in the first case, you should contact your program coordinator to gauge the availability of doctoral seats and learn more about the application process at the university or doctoral college.

Doctoral programs in Spain can have different deadlines for application. This usually depends on the university of your choice, research discipline, and any components associated with the training. 

However, most Spanish universities will want to receive doctoral inquiries from potential students between January and May, in preparation for the next academic year.

You will usually need to submit additional application materials such as a Research proposal, resume, reviewer, and even an interview. Some official documents may require localized versions in the official Spanish language.

Acceptance requirements

To successfully enroll in a PhD program in Spain, you will usually need to have a BA and a Master’s degree in Spain relevant to the research field. The equivalent scores are acceptable, provided that they correspond to at least 300 points in the European System (ECTS).

Moreover, you will need to recognize other qualifications by the Spanish National Recognition Information Center (NARIC), the Embassy, or the Spanish Consulate.

Learn about Master’s studies in Spain

Language requirements

Although more courses in Spain are in English, many doctoral programs are in Spanish. As a result, you will need to meet the Spanish language requirements of your university. This depends on the University’s individual policy and the structure of the doctoral program.

Student visas

There are many immigration procedures for doctoral study in Spain. The specific details and processes required depend on your country of origin.

International students must obtain a valid student visa (Type D) to enter Spain at first. The initial study visa is valid for the first three months of residence in Spain. During the first month, you must get a long-term visa by attending in-person to the local diplomatic mission or consulate.

In addition, You must apply for a study visa in Spain (at a Spanish embassy or consulate in your country) before traveling to Spain. Then, the request fee is (EUR 60) and associated with each visa application.

Residency in Spain

All PhD students living in Spain must register in the Central Register of Foreign nationals (Registro Central de Extranjeros) during the first three months of their stay. The application requires similar visa application documentation. You can register in person at the Oficina de Extranjería, or at your accommodation’s local police station.

Completing the registration gives you an “ NIE ” that enables you to open a Spanish bank account, use Spanish health services, and qualify for student discounts.

Learn also about the study fees and living cost in Spain for international students

PhD programs in Spain for international students

When it comes to PhD programs, universities in Spain have plentiful of options. Whether you are interested in sciences, health sciences, law, social sciences, technological sciences, arts and humanities or other, you will find a suitable program in Spanish universities. 

To narrow down the long list for you, here are the top universities in Spain where you can apply for a PhD: 

• Autonomous university of Barcelona, offering more than 65 PhD programs. The institution holds the distinction of HR Excellence in Research, making it a safe bet when it comes to academic research in Spain. 
• University of Valencia, offering 61 PhD programs
• Complutense University of Madrid, with over 55 PhD degree programs.
• University of Barcelona, which provides 50 PhD programs you can check out.
• University of Zaragoza, offering 47 programs for PhD
• Autonomous University of Madrid, with 42 PhD programs
• University of Salamanca with over 40 programs 

You can learn more about some of these universities in our article on the top universities in Spain. 

How much does a PhD in Spain cost?

If you choose to study in Spain, you will certainly pay less in tuition fees than many countries in Western Europe. But in general, the cost of a PhD in Spain depends on the university, the research subject as well as the student’s nationality. International students from the EU/EEA region will pay lower fees than those who come outside these countries. 

Moreover, tuition fees in Spain use a pay-per-credit basis. In other words, the cost of one credit is multiplied by the number of ECTS credits, and this cost per year, for a PhD program can go up to €55. This brings the total cost to up to €3,300 for the first year, while the following years, students will spend on their research and thesis writing. The costs will then drop significantly since it can go as lesser than €200-€600 per year. 

To cover these costs, or at least the bigger amounts, students can apply for a scholarship. There are even fully-funded PhD scholarships for international students and researchers in Spain. 

Learn more in our article on the types of scholarships in Spain.

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Ph.D Scholarships for Spain students 2024-2025

Find Ph.D scholarships for Spain students 2024-2025 to study abroad and in Spain

City Law School PhD Law Scholarships for Black British Researchers 2024

The City Law School is offering a full-time, three-year doctoral scholarships (entry in September 2024) specifically addressed to Black British applicants. Applications are invited from exceptional and ambitious graduates wishing to pursue cutting-edge research in any of the School's key rese

Published: 27 Mar 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Deadline: 01 Apr 2024

Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS) Scholarships for PhD Students at University of Stirling 2024

Our Institute for Advanced Studies (IAS) Studentships represent a £3.6m investment by the University in doctoral research from 2023-2025. Apply Now!!!!  

Published: 23 Mar 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Deadline: 25 Mar 2024

Arthritis Society Canada Training Graduate PhD Salary Award (TGP) 2024

Salary awards are offered to graduate students who are undertaking full-time research training in an area of clear relevance to arthritis and Arthritis Society Canada's Strategic Plan 2020-2025: Accelerating Impact - Research Strategy which aims to identify research avenues that f

Published: 18 Mar 2024 Type: PhD Study in: Canada Value: $105,000 Deadline: 16 Apr 2024

University of British Columbia Gustave O. Arlt Scholarship Award in Humanities 2024

This award is named in the honor of Gustave O. Arlt (1895-1986) who was the first president of the Council of Graduate Schools, former faculty member and Dean of the Graduate School at UCLA, and a scholar of German language and literature. Since 1972, this award is made annually to recognize a young

Published: 15 Mar 2024 Type: PhD Study in: Canada Deadline: 12 Apr 2024

University of Kent Law School PhD Research Studentship in UK 2024

This studentship is offered by Kent Law School in association with the UKRI-funded Future Leaders Fellowship project led by Dr Connal Parsley, “The Future of Good Decisions: an Evolutionary Approach to Human-AI Government Administrative Decision-Making”. The project will take a new appro

Published: 05 Mar 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £23,334 Deadline: 31 Mar 2024

Canadian Government NSERC Postgraduate Scholarships for PGS-Doctoral Students 2024

The Canada Graduate Scholarships — Doctoral (CGS D) program is a federal program of scholarships administered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (S

Published: 27 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: Canada Value: $105,000 Deadline: 17 Oct 2024

The Human Frontier Science Program Research Grants for Innovative Basic Researchers 2024

HFSP Research Grants support innovative basic research into fundamental biological problems with emphasis placed on novel and interdisciplinary approaches that involve scientific exchanges across national and disciplinary boundaries (see guidelines). Participation of scie

Published: 23 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: Value: 500,000 USD Deadline: 19 Mar 2024

Funds For Women Graduates ?Foundation Grants for PhD or DPhil Students 2024

?Foundation Grants are designed to help women graduates in the final year of a PhD or DPhil with their living expenses. We do not provide funds to cover fees. To be eligible you must be registered for study or research at an approved institution of higher education in Great Britain and doing the bul

Published: 23 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £6,500 Deadline: 28 Mar 2024

University of Kent Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Scholarship for PhD Students 2024

The University of Kent is pleased to offer four EPSRC studentships starting in September 2024 to exceptional students undertaking PhD study in the following schools on a full-time basis: School of Physics and Astronomy School of Chemistry and Forensic Sciences School of Computing School

Published: 22 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £18,622 Deadline: 24 Mar 2024

Victoria University of Wellington Doctoral Scholarship Call for Application 2024

These scholarships are intended to encourage and support doctoral study (PhD) at Victoria University of Wellington. History To encourage postgraduate research Victoria University of Wellington offers scholarships to those about to begin their doctoral studies. These scholarships are awarded on

Published: 21 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: New Zealand Value:  $29,500 Deadline: 01 Nov 2024

University of Southampton Horizon Europe Fee Waivers for Postgraduate Students 2024

The University of Southampton is introducing a new programme to support the reassociation of the UK with the Horizon Europe programme, and the University strategy to grow the international diversity of its doctoral cohort. The University will apply a fee waiver - equivalent to the diffe

Published: 20 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £26,100 Deadline: Not Specified

Newcastle University Konishi Foundation Scholarship for PhD Students 2024

The Konishi Foundation Scholarship provides support to an excellent candidate who wishes to pursue a PhD in Politics in topics related to East Asian politics within the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology at Newcastle University. For purposes of this call, East Asia includes China, Hong Kong

Published: 16 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £18,622 Deadline: 19 Feb 2024

Newcastle University Adaptive Management Strategies of Amenity Grasslands PhD Scholarship 2024

Recreational and amenity land provides important green space for people but can be poor for biodiversity. Frequent mowing regimes by local authorities have left many areas of amenity grassland thin and compacted, with low botanical diversity. Changes to mowing regimes could significantly improve bio

Published: 12 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £18,622 Deadline: 23 Feb 2024

Newcastle University AHRC-funded PhD Studentship in Early Modern Studies 2024

Interested in early modern books, print culture and politics? This project investigates how the early modern English state used the book trade guild known as the Stationers’ Company to censor publications.  You will work with the Stationers’ Company’s extensive archive (in

Published: 09 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £17,668 Deadline: 28 Feb 2024

TWAS-Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award for Developing and Developed Countries 2024

TWAS is inviting nominations for the 2024 Award from all its members as well as science academies, national research councils, universities and scientific institutions in developing and developed countries.

Published: 09 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Deadline: 10 May 2024

Newcastle University Overseas Research Scholarships (NUORS) for International PhD Students 2024 entry

Newcastle University is committed to offering support to the very best international students hoping to pursue a programme of research. We are pleased to offer a small number of University funded NUORS awards for outstanding international students who apply to commence PhD studies in any subject in

Published: 08 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £24,088 Deadline: 10 May 2024

University of Bristol Black Heritage PhD Scholarships 2024

We welcome applications for full scholarships to postgraduate research programmes starting in 2024. As part of our commitment to the Black community, the University of Bristol has launched a number of postgraduate research scholarships exclusively for students of Black heritage for 2024/25 entry.

Published: 02 Feb 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Value: £18,622 Deadline: 27 Feb 2024

University of Brighton Research Studentships for PhD Students 2024

We are now welcoming applications for fully-funded PhD studentships in the life and physical sciences with a start date of October 2024.

Published: 27 Jan 2024 Type: PhD Study in: United Kingdom Deadline: 29 Feb 2024

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Voiland College names 2024 outstanding students

Washington State University Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture recognized outstanding students at its annual convocation ceremony on April 11. The event was sponsored by the Boeing Company. Honored award winners included:

• Outstanding Sophomore: Rylee Gannon A chemical engineering major with a 3.8 GPA, Rylee Gannon is a research assistant for Professor Steve Saunders, where she synthesizes and characterizes nanomaterials for use as catalysts in oxidation reactions Gannon also works in the Frank Innovation Zone and is an active member of the Society of Women Engineers.
• Outstanding Junior: Ethan Villalovoz Ethan Villalovoz is a computer science student with a GPA of 3.99, specializing in data mining, machine learning, and data science. Some of his more notable achievements include being a CS Research Mentorship Program Scholar, a Generation Google Scholarship Recipient, and a Hispanic Scholarship Fund Scholar. He has also engaged in extensive extracurricular activities, including internships at Google and a research position at Carnegie Mellon University.
• Outstanding Senior: Katy Ayers A Fulbright Fellowship Award and Marshall Scholarship Semifinalist, Katy Ayers is the first WSU student to win the Udall Scholar in Environment award. Her thirst for knowledge has given her robust research experience around the country and the world. One of Ayers’ nominators said, “Although I have worked with many outstanding students in my 20 years of teaching at the undergraduate level, I don’t think I have met anyone with Katy’s experiences, accomplishments and passion. She is motivated, demonstrates curiosity and critical thinking and communicates incredibly well.”
• Outstanding Teaching Assistant for grading/office hours: Kutay Sesli Kutay Sesli’s nominators were impressed by his innovative approaches and genuine care for students this past year. Kutay recognized that that conventional ways to grade assignments might not provide a full picture of where students need improvement, so he took the initiative to develop an innovative, consistent, fair, and detailed grading system that helped students develop trust in the grading process and a better understanding of how to improve their performance throughout the semester. He approaches each task with the mindset of a true engineer, and the results left no doubt that his grading was done with meticulous attention to detail and with the best outcomes for students in mind. Among the feedback students have given include: “Kutay is the best TA all semester, excellent job!” and “Kutay is dope!”
• Outstanding Teaching Assistant — Teaching/Instruction: Chris Pereyda Chris Pereyda has served as teaching assistant in several courses, including Introduction to Computer Programming. In one of his courses there were more than 500 students. One of those students said of Chris: “He is one of the best TAs I have ever had the pleasure of learning from. Being a Computer Science student can be difficult, but his explanations and knowledge of the source material helped me grasp some of the concepts better and persevere.” One of his faculty members said, “Chris was one of my most reliable, impactful, and effective TAs during my twenty years of teaching at WSU. Chris is the ideal example of a lead teaching assistant. He is knowledgeable in the area, patient with TAs and students, flexible and adaptive to different TAs’ and students’ styles and paces. There is not a better example of a TA than Chris.
• Outstanding Research Assistant: Ali Mahmoodigahrouei As a PhD candidate at WSU, Ali Mahmoodigahrouei has shown an exceptional academic record and research skills. Since joining WSU in 2022, he has published 14 impactful papers with over 300 citations, earning several prestigious awards, including the David C. Goss Scholarship and the “UTC Outstanding Student of the Year Award.” His nominators feel he consistently goes above and beyond expectations, managing multiple projects simultaneously and with great success. He also excels as a mentor, effectively supervising undergraduate students while providing valuable assistance to other PhD students in his research group.
• Outstanding Dissertation: Lin Shao Lin Shao’s nominators say that he is a truly exceptional graduate student and has done excellent research on chemical recycling of plastic waste by aminolysis and utilization of the recycled compounds for preparation of new polymer materials. His thesis research has received a broad interest from researchers around the world. Shao, as one of guest speakers, was invited to give a seminar at the Royal Society of Chemistry and Chemistry World. His research was also featured by “The Voice of America.”

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by Heather Riske | Apr 25, 2024

Monica Treviño, a PhD clinical psychology student, has been strengthening her linguistic and clinical skills to better serve the Latinx community. (Photo by Derik Holtmann)

Monica Treviño was born in Mexico and grew up speaking Spanish conversationally with her family in Texas, but she wasn’t quite as comfortable providing mental health services in the language. Hoping to strengthen her linguistic and clinical skills to better serve the Latinx community – which has grown by more than 40% in St. Louis over the past decade – she spent six weeks last summer in Huanchaco, Peru, completing PASEO’s immersion and practicum experience . In October, she attended the National Latinx Psychological Association conference. Now, she’s using what she learned from both experiences to help make the services at UMSL’s Community Psychological Service culturally and linguistically accessible to Spanish speakers.

1. How do conversational and clinical Spanish differ?

It’s a very different type of Spanish. There’s so much niche terminology that we don’t even realize that we’re learning. I’ve been studying psychology for 10 years now. That’s a decade of pretty specialized language in English that I had limited exposure to in Spanish. Prior to this program, I would have struggled to speak about fairly basic therapeutic assessment concepts with a client.

2. What are you taking away from these experiences?

My clinical vocabulary in Spanish has grown tremendously and I’ve gained the confidence I needed to actually do this type of clinical work effectively. It’s one thing to have the knowledge, but it’s easy to feel imposter syndrome when you haven’t had any opportunities to use it and prove to yourself that you can do it well. I also have a better understanding of how I can hopefully supervise bilingual trainees effectively some day in the near future.

3. What have you been able to implement so far?

To start, we wanted to at least have some translated psychoeducational materials that we could share with families as they’re waiting for their next treatment touchpoint. We’re getting all of the paperwork, resource packets and referrals ready, making sure that all of our consent forms and HIPAA forms are translated and implementing more standard tools for measuring competency in this area for any future bilingual trainees.

4. Why is it so important to measure competency?

In the field of psychology, there are core competencies for specialized areas of training. We don’t have the same for bilingual psychologists. Having standard competencies and measurement tools is important because it allows us to create effective training programs, empowers people who are able to provide the services and ensures that clients are receiving high-quality care.

5. How would you like to see these services continue to grow?

Being able to have that infrastructure where we already have everything translated and ready to go will make it easier for us to start providing services in Spanish. I am hopeful that we will continue to have new cohorts coming into the program with interest and experience in providing services in Spanish, and it can just keep growing from there.

This story was originally published in the spring 2024 issue of UMSL Magazine . If you have a story idea for UMSL Magazine, email  [email protected] .

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Two cogsci students receive nsf grfs.

PhD students Taylor Martinez and Kathy Garcia have the distinct honor of being selected as 2024 NSF Graduate Research Fellows!

Taylor Martinez , PhD Student

Nsf graduate research fellowship in social sciences – linguistics.

Project: Are You Hearing What I’m Hearing ?: Pragmatic inference and language change in wellness dogwhistles

Advisors: Kyle Rawlins and Barbara Landau

Dogwhistles are terms that send one message to an outgroup while simultaneously sending a second, covert message to an ingroup. Most previous accounts have restricted their analyses to dogwhistles used in a single period of time (i.e., synchronically); therefore, much less is understood about how dogwhistles emerge and change overtime. In my research, I will provide an account for dogwhistles that characterizes the forms of language change they undergo and I will do so using a case study on wellness language.

Background and Research Interests: In 2019, I graduated from Rutgers University with a B.A. in Linguistics and Spanish. After, I went on to be a lab manager in the Rutgers Lab for Developmental Language Studies and the Princeton Baby Lab. Currently, I am a second yeah PhD student and my research interests are broadly about how things like ideological or spatial perspective are encoded in language.  

Kathy Garcia , PhD Student

Nsf graduate research fellowship in psychology (other) – computational.

Project: Large-scale Deep Neural Network Benchmarking in Dynamic Social Vision

Advisor: Leyla Isik

To date, deep learning models trained for computer vision tasks are the best models of human vision. This work has largely focused on neural responses to static images, but the visual world is highly dynamic, and recent work has suggested that in addition to the ventral visual stream specializing in static object recognition, there is a lateral visual stream that processes dynamic, social content. In this work, we investigate the ability of 350+ modern image and video models to predict human neural responses to visual-social content in short video clips. We find that unlike prior benchmarks, even the best image-trained models do a poor job of explaining human behavioral judgements and neural responses. In early and mid-level lateral visual regions, video-trained models predicted neural responses far better than image-trained models. However, prediction by all models was overall lower in lateral than ventral visual regions of the brain, particularly in the superior temporal sulcus. Together, these results reveal a key gap in modern deep learning models’ ability to match human responses to dynamic visual scenes.

Research Interests: NeuroAI; Deep Learning, Cognitive Neuroscience

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Computer Science PhD Student First to Receive Competitive Award

BATON ROUGE, LA – LSU Computer Science Ph.D. student Ruxin Wang is the recipient of the highly competitive 2024 Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) Rising Stars Award, making her the first-ever LSU student to receive the honor. She is also the first female LSU student to publish a first-author security paper at one of the Big 4 Security conferences.

Wang will next attend the 2024 CPS Rising Stars Workshop in May at the University of Virginia. There, she will receive the award, which aims to identify and mentor outstanding Ph.D. and post-doctoral students who are interested in pursuing academic careers in CPS core research areas.

“This award recognizes my research in CPS security and using CPS to improve traffic safety and public health,” Wang said. “In addition to my research, this award also recognizes my efforts in engaging women scholars in STEM research. I greatly appreciate the help and guidance of my Ph.D. advisor, Dr. Chen Wang, who consistently encouraged me to apply for this national award and be brave enough to compete with other top-ranking university peers. I am now more determined to pursue a faculty position after graduation, and I am now more confident that I can make significant contributions to CPS research and education.”

Last May, Wang became the first female LSU student to publish a first-author security paper at a Big 4 Security conference when her paper on developing a low-effort authentication method for VR headset users was published at the 44th IEEE Symposium on Security and Privacy. Existing VR authentications require users to enter a PIN number or draw graphical passwords, which can be observed by others in proximity to the user and create security issues. Wang’s proposed method would be based on the unique skull-reverberated sounds, which can be acquired when the user wears the VR device.

“It is very challenging to publish a first-author paper at a Big 4 Security conference, such as IEEE S&P, which has a low acceptance rate (e.g., 13%),” Wang said. “The review process is double-blind, and reviewers don’t know who you are…[they only have] your submitted paper to make decisions. I worked with my advisor, Dr. Wang, and my colleague, Mr. Long Huang, for over two years on the VR authentication topic, and our submission has been rejected many times. We kept researching on this area, solving challenges, and improving our paper to finally make it to the level of the Big 4 Security conferences.

“To me, it is a high recognition of my research achievements in ‘Cyber-Physical Systems for Security, Safety, and Healthcare’ at LSU and a milestone in my academic career. ‘First’ means there will be a second and a third. I am now working towards publishing the second Big 4 paper.

Like us on Facebook (@lsuengineering) or follow us on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram (@lsuengineering).​

Contact: Joshua Duplechain Director of Communications 225-578-5706 [email protected]

Ph.D. Student Named Apple Scholar for Human-Centered LLM Research

“chatgpt, do you know who i am” computer science doctoral student brihi joshi studies the symbiotic relationship between humans and large language models.

Joshi is one 21 graduate students from around the world to be recognized by this year’s fellowship. Photo/Alexis Situ.

Brihi Joshi, a third-year computer science student, has been named a 2024 Apple Scholar in artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) . S he is one of just 21 graduate students from around the world to be recognized by this year’s fellowship, which aims to support the academic research community “by amplifying emerging leaders in their field and their cutting-edge machine learning research.”   

Joshi works with the Natural Language Processing (NLP) Group under the direction of Xiang Ren , the Andrew and Erna Viterbi Early Career Chair and an associate professor of computer science, and Swabha Swayamdipta , a WiSE Gabilan assistant professor of computer science.  

Joshi’s research is focused on the symbiotic relationship between humans and large language models (LLMs) — how can humans effectively use LLMs and in turn, how can LLMs benefit from human intervention? To do so, Joshi often uses model explanations — a description to explain how an AI system arrived at a particular interpretation — to help users understand the meaning behind a model’s outputs.  

Her goal is to investigate whether LLMs, such as the model that powers ChatGPT, are useful to people in diverse settings, from laypeople in everyday life to domain experts, such as doctors or lawyers, in their professions.  

We sat down with Joshi to find out more about her, her work, and the fellowship.

Tell me about yourself!

I’m originally from New Delhi, India. I completed my undergrad in India, where I worked a lot in social media analysis, for instance, understanding patterns from mass human communication on social networks. Now, since LLMs started coming into play, a lot of research in our group at USC has gone into understanding how they work.

Why did you decide to pursue a PhD?

I worked as a software engineer for a while, and while that is important and relevant — a lot of things that people use in their daily lives are based on engineering — I just didn’t feel the excitement. I felt like we were constrained in what we could think and invent. And I think that’s the benefit of PhD programming in academia: You get to broaden your horizons, thinking about things people haven’t thought about before.

What’s your research about?

LLMs are everywhere these days, but are they actually useful for humans? Everyone says ChatGPT is great, but what is it great for? Who is using ChatGPT? How are they using it and is it actually helping them? There’s a big research gap and I’m interested in understanding the utility of these LLMs in a more principled manner. Can we quantify that utility? Can we improve that utility?

Let’s ask ChatGPT a science question: Why is the sky blue? It might give you a five-page, physics-based answer to this. If a layperson is looking at the answer, it won’t make any sense. Right now, I’m researching whether ChatGPT can understand who is interacting with it. Is it somebody with a PhD in physics? Is it a layperson who studied physics 10 years ago and doesn’t remember some of the concepts? Is it a 10-year-old child? ChatGPT’s answer should change based on who’s interacting with the model, and that will determine whether the answer is useful.

How do you quantify whether something is useful to someone?

Like any research question, there is a broad idea of what quantifies utility, but you must scope it down. In one of my papers, I measure utility by looking at questions that are relatively tough for humans to answer.   

I show a couple of human annotators this question: “Is Australia bigger than the United States?” They can’t answer that question, so they guess.   

I show them an explanation is generated by an LLM, like “Australia is 7.7 million square kilometers, and the United States is 9.8 million square kilometers.” If the explanation is useful, humans will be able to answer the question correctly after seeing the explanation. If the explanation is not useful, the next question is, “How do we make it useful?”  

Interesting. Tell us more about the Apple Scholar in AIML PhD Fellowship!  

This is a way for Apple to support PhD students in their research, recognizing their work and giving them mentorship opportunities. Apart from generous funding for a PhD, they provide us with a mentor to help us brainstorm — be a sounding board in industry — as well as internship opportunities and networking connections.  

What are you looking forward to most as an Apple Scholar?  

I absolutely love the idea of being connected to a mentor. I have great PhD advisors and they are great mentors, but the Apple fellowship will provide an industry perspective.  The LLM community is very fast-paced right now. Every day, there are a bajillion new research papers and problems that people are working on, which is great, but then that gives you very little time and opportunity to carve a niche for yourself. Having that industry mentor will help me ground my work in something that people actually use.  

Are you looking to go into industry after you finish your PhD?  

I don’t have an answer for that … *laughs* …  I’m interested in industry and research, so every avenue is open to me right now.   

Finally, a bit of a random question: If you weren’t a computer scientist, what would you be?  

Hands down, I would be a musician! I would probably be a singer-songwriter. I’ve taken a lot of music classes at USC, and I’m part of the USC Concert Choir. I have taken multiple piano and drum classes here, and currently taking pop performance. Next semester, I’m taking songwriting. It just keeps me sane!  

Published on April 23rd, 2024

Last updated on April 23rd, 2024

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Student Spotlight: Lily Koffman

Lily Koffman is a PhD candidate in the Department of Biostatistics. She was previously a WiST (Women in Sports Tech, Inc.) Summer Fellow, and a High Performance Intern at U.S. Ski & Snowboard.

Lily Koffman is a PhD candidate in the Department of Biostatistics. Her academic and professional interests include sports science, public health, and biostatistics methods for data from wearables and other technology.

• Hometown:  Orono, Maine
• Previous Degrees Earned: BA in Statistics, Harvard University; MS in Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
• Current Program: PhD
• Starting Year: 2021
• Area of Focus:  Methods and applications for wearable device data

How did you get interested in biostatistics? 

My path to biostatistics lies through two classes I was lucky enough to stumble upon in college. After taking Joe Blitzstein’s “Introduction to Probability” in my sophomore year, I fell in love with and decided to major in statistics; however, I wasn’t certain what career path I wanted to pursue. The following year, Giovanni Parmigiani’s “Data Analysis in Modern Biostatistics” introduced me to biostatistics. I loved how the field combined mathematical rigor with innovative problem-solving and provided the opportunity for impactful applications in medicine and public health.

What has been your favorite class so far at Hopkins? 

The Advanced Methods in Biostatistics series was the most rewarding class I’ve taken at Hopkins. While undeniably challenging, the class allowed me to immerse myself in the math and theory that underpins the methods we use every day in our field, from simple linear regression to Bayesian mixed effects models.

Can you name an academic highlight you've had during your time as a Biostats student? 

One of my projects involves working with high-density hemodynamic time series data collected during cardiac surgery. Our collaborators, anesthesiologists at the School of Medicine, invited me and Marina Hernandez, a fellow PhD student, to observe an open-heart surgery. It was incredible to witness the precision and expertise of the surgical team. The experience emphasized the tangible impact our research can have on advancing clinical care and improving patient outcomes.

Have you been involved in any interesting projects or organizations during your time here?

I’m a member of the wearable and implantable technology (WIT) working group , and our meetings are my favorite part of the week. Some of the projects our group is working on include modeling data collected from continuous glucose monitors, developing algorithms to accurately count steps and detect walking using wearable accelerometers, and exploring mortality and disease prediction based on patterns of physical activity. 

What do you enjoy most about living in Baltimore? 

There is a genuine sense of community pride here, living up to the nickname “Charm City.” I love running in Patterson Park, walking along the Harbor, exploring the distinct personalities of each neighborhood, and finding quirky restaurants, bars, and coffee shops tucked into former row homes (see: Little Donna’s , La Barrita , Pie Time ). As an outdoor enthusiast, I love the fact that the NCR Trail, Patapsco State Park , the C&O Canal , Catoctin Mountain Park , and many more recreation areas are accessible within an hour’s drive of the city.

What advice do you have for prospective students considering the Department of Biostatistics? 

My advice to prospective students is to talk to engage with current students and professors in the Department and ask lots of questions! I think this is the best way to get a sense of the community and culture in the Department and help decide whether it would be a good fit for you. 

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The Bioinformatics PhD Program is well established, with a long history of successful graduates in both academia and industry.  

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To apply for the Bioinformatics PhD Program, you must submit complete applications by December 1 for admission the following Fall term. Early applications are not allowed and will not be considered. 

Please visit the Rackham Graduate School web pages for additional information on applying. There you will also find information on how to respond to an offer of admission, plus tips and materials required for international applicants and incoming students.

If you are certain about pursuing a Bioinformatics PhD, then applications should be submitted directly to the Bioinformatics PhD Program ; there are more than 100 diverse affiliated faculty to choose from.

Applicants should be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. In addition, applicants with a background in quantitative sciences should consider applying directly. Separately, if you are transferring from another University of Michigan Program or have obtained an established University of Michigan mentor affiliated with the program, a direct application is most appropriate.

PIBS is an umbrella program that offers first-year PhD students flexibility in exploring opportunities in bioinformatics and thirteen other graduate programs. Through PIBS, students have the opportunity to rotate in, and potentially join the lab of a faculty mentor in another program; there are more than 500 diverse faculty to select from. PIBS students who list Bioinformatics as their primary choice must complete at least one rotation with a Bioinformatics-affiliated faculty member. After 10 months in PIBS, students officially join Bioinformatics (or one of the other programs). You can visit the PIBS website for more information.

Please note that reviewing admissions faculty for both PIBS and direct applications are the same. In addition, admitted applicants take the same Bioinformatics-specific courses and activities. See below for details on program diversity outreach, application materials, and funding.

Students who will have an MS in a relevant field (e.g. computer science, statistics, biostatistics, biology) from another university may request to have up to 6 credit-hours (two classes) waived. These classes may be used to help fulfill the core PhD requirements for biology (1 course), statistics (2 courses), and/or computing (1 course). To obtain approval, students need to send a detailed syllabus of the class(es) they took to the PhD directors along with their grade(s), which must be a B or better. The other PhD course requirements, including BIOINF-529 and two advanced bioinformatics courses, cannot be waived.

Most international Bioinformatics PhD applicants should apply through PIBS. However, some who are already embedded in a University of Michigan mentor lab affiliated with the program may be an appropriate fit for the direct Bioinformatics PhD program.

The TOEFL or IELTS exam is required unless Rackham Graduate School waiver requirements have been met. Criteria for English proficiency exemption can be found on the Rackham website . In addition, a list of required credentials from non-U.S. institutions for an application can be found here.

The Bioinformatics Graduate Program encourages applications from traditionally underrepresented minorities, students with disabilities, and those from disadvantaged backgrounds. There are numerous funding opportunities and resources on campus to contribute to students overall well-being while pursuing studies. Several resources available to students can be found on the Rackham Graduate School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion website .

We find a new reason to love Ann Arbor nearly every day — year-round outdoor activities, cultural experiences, a growing food scene, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere are just a few that come to mind. Explore all that Ann Arbor and our surrounding communities have to offer. 

All application materials should be submitted electronically when possible. Applicants must meet  Rackham's Minimum Requirements for Admission . The  online application form  can be found on the Rackham Admissions webpages. The application is available in early September through the deadline. 

• GPA, minimum 3.2/4.0 (exceptions may be made if deemed appropriate)
• Letters of recommendation (3 required): Please be aware that submitting only the Rackham Recommendation for Admission Form is insufficient; forms must be accompanied by a letter from the recommender. All letters are due by the application deadline. Without them, applications will not be considered complete or reviewed by the Program Admissions Committee.
• Statement of Purpose: The Statement of Purpose should be a concise, well-written statement about your academic and research background, your career goals, and how Michigan's graduate program will help you meet your career and educational objectives.
• Personal Statement: The Personal Statement should be a concise, well-written statement about how your personal background and life experiences, including social, cultural, familial, educational, or other opportunities or challenges, motivated your decision to pursue a graduate degree at the University of Michigan. This is not an Academic Statement of Purpose, but a discussion of the personal journey that has led to your decision to seek a graduate degree.
• Transcripts: Please submit unofficial transcripts electronically with your online application
• GRE scores are no longer included as part of admission
• Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency via either the TOEFL or IELTS exam. The institution code is 1839. Other exams may not be substituted. Rackham Graduate School offers a full explanation of this requirement , including exemption criteria. Please contact Rackham directly ( [email protected] ) with questions.

Diversity is a key component of excellence, especially for solving the complex biomedical challenges that our field of computational medicine and bioinformatics faces. We believe that all people—regardless of background, race, religion, sexual/gender orientation, age or disability—deserve an equitable opportunity to pursue the education and career of their choice.

The Bioinformatics Graduate Program will provide tuition, healthcare coverage, and a stipend on a 12-month basis. This level of support will be maintained throughout a student's tenure in the Program, provided s/he remains in good academic standing and makes reasonable progress towards the degree as determined by the Graduate Directors, with faculty input. It is expected that the student will be supported directly by the mentor's laboratory, beginning in the second year. The expected time to degree is typically 5-6 years.

The U-M MS program is a terminal degree program. If you are interested in the Bioinformatics PhD Program, you must submit a new application. If you are a Bioinformatics MS student who is in good academic standing and has identified a Bioinformatics affiliated faculty mentor, you may apply for admission directly to the PhD Bioinformatics Program for the Winter term. Reviewing faculty take all application components into account and mentors are prepared to take both academic and financial responsibility for their trainees.

Eligibility: Only current or recently graduated University of Michigan Master’s students are eligible. Before applying, students must have completed more than half of all required courses, with at least six credits from the Bioinformatics Program.

Application deadline: October 1

The online application form can be found on the Rackham Admissions webpages. The application is available in early September through the deadline.

• Letters of recommendation: Please be aware that submitting only the Rackham Recommendation for Admission Form is insufficient; forms must be accompanied by a letter from the recommender. If you wish to include three letters from your original application, only one additional letter is needed. It must be from the DCMB faculty member who will serve as your primary mentor. The letter should state clearly that the mentor takes responsibility for your funding upon admission. Alternatively, you may wish to obtain three new letters of recommendation. The Admissions Committee strongly encourages you to include letters from those familiar with your research and coursework obtained while pursuing your Master’s degree. Of these, one must be from the faculty member who will serve as your primary mentor. The letter should state clearly that the mentor takes responsibility for your funding upon admission.
• Statement of Purpose: The Statement of Purpose should be a concise, well-written statement about your academic and research background, your career goals, and how the PhD Program will help you meet your career and educational objectives.
• Transcripts: Only a current, unofficial U-M transcript is necessary. You do not need to re-submit materials included with your Master’s application.
• TOEFL: If you submitted TOEFL scores when applying to the Master’s Program, additional test scores are not needed.

Bioinformatics consists of a mathematical and/or statistical analysis of a biomedical problem using computation. We define bioinformatics widely and include traditional bioinformatics areas such as for examples, systems biology, genomics, proteomics, plus statistical and evolutionary genetics, clinical informatics, and protein modeling.

As an interdisciplinary field, Bioinformatics attracts graduate students from mathematics, statistics, physics, computer science, biomedical engineering, chemistry, biochemistry and biology. Most incoming students have both a major in one and a minor in another discipline. In recent years students have entered with undergraduate training in bioinformatics or computational biology.

Each student obtains individual counseling by one of the two graduate program directors upon arrival and throughout their academic career. As Bioinformatics is still developing, new courses are added all the time. Current students are encouraged to contact the Program Directors about courses that may be relevant to their studies and are not listed on the website (esp. if they are new or infrequently offered).

In most cases, we recommend you apply to the PIBS program, as it provides flexibility in classes, funding, and a central admission for many biomedical programs. If you have no or very little biology background, please contact our Student Services Representative as to whether a direct application would be better. Current student who are considering transferring areas of study should also contact the Bioinformatics Graduate Office.

There is no need to apply both direct and through PIBS, as the same committee sees your applications.

For most students, thesis work includes computing, reading, and writing. A small group also participates in wet laboratory work. Please check both the research areas and student webpages for an overview of the varied subjects addressed in research and student theses.

Many of our graduate students obtain academic postdoctoral fellowships and go on to faculty positions. Quite a significant number of graduates go into non-academic professions such as small or large biotech companies. Some have founded their own business, and others apply their analytical skills in companies unrelated to bioinformatics. For a current list of graduate placement, please visit the alumni pages.

No. If you want to get a PhD, directly apply to the PhD Program.

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