Territorial Collectivity of Corsica - Regional Grants for Research-Doctoral Students of the University of Corsica

Regional doctoral contract at the University of Corsica

You will be offered a paid, three-year employment contract to complete your doctoral thesis at the University of Corsica in Corte. This is funded by the Regional Authority of Corsica (the Collectivité de Corse). The gross salary is approximately 2,300 EUR per month for research work alone. It rises to approximately 2,670 EUR per month if you also take on additional duties such as teaching or science communication. This is a fixed-term employment contract under French public law, meaning you will have full employee status and social security cover. This is more than just a scholarship, which is a lump-sum monthly payment without an employment contract. The contract runs for 3 years and is renewed annually, giving you sufficient time to complete your PhD thesis.

Who can apply

• Degree: You hold a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification.
• Enrolment: You are starting a PhD programme (doctorat) at the University of Corsica ‘Pasquale Paoli’ in Corte.
• Research topic: Your dissertation relates to the economic development of Corsica and is in line with the region’s key research areas.
• Field of study: Any topic is suitable, provided it fits in with the regional priorities mentioned above.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.
• Grades: You have successfully completed your Master’s degree, ideally with a good grade (Assez-Bien, Bien, Très-Bien or as top of your year).
• No double funding: You are not currently receiving any other scholarship or grant, nor are you in paid employment.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the Doctoral School’s online platform at the same time as you register your doctoral thesis. The call for applications runs every year from mid-February to the end of April, with the deadline for applications on 30 April. Your topic must correspond to one of the dissertation topics advertised for the coming year. The university reviews and selects candidates once a year in May.

How realistic are your chances?

The selection criteria are very strict. Only a handful of these scholarships are awarded each year; your research topic must align with Corsica’s regional development priorities, and you must be enrolled on a PhD programme at this specific university. This keeps the pool of applicants small, meaning that an outstanding Master’s result and a well-structured dissertation project offer a suitable candidate a genuine chance of success. Secure a supervisor and a suitable dissertation proposal at an early stage, and submit your application before the deadline in April.