Academic Matchmaking

Identifying a supervisor is a key step in applying for a PhD at the Graduate School of Medical Sciences of the University of Groningen. While it is ultimately the candidate’s responsibility to secure academic supervision, the Graduate School of Medical Sciences (GSMS) is pleased to support this process for selected candidates.

When we can support you: PhD candidates

You may review the different categories of PhD candidates we have defined here. We provide academic matchmaking support for the following categories:

  • PhD Scholarship (external): For candidates who bring a full PhD scholarship from a recognized external funding body.
  • ATTP Sandwich PhD: For candidates who consider a Sandwich PhD trajectory (typically, double or joint degree) and who are able to meet the requirements listed on the ATTP Sandwich PhD webpage.
  • Self-Funded PhD: For candidates who can demonstrate sufficient personal funds to cover the entire PhD trajectory.

When we can support you: Non-degree mobility

In addition to full PhD tracks, GSMS also supports non-degree mobility for early-stage researchers who wish to explore whether the UMCG is the right fit for their future doctoral training in one of the PhD candidate categories listed above. This includes:

  • Candidates who are self-funded or who have access to short-term scholarships (typically 1–3 months), such as a Research Voucher, Summer of Research grant, Erasmus+ ICM (conditions apply), or partner institution mobility grants.
  • Visiting PhD interns who are not (yet) formally admitted to a PhD program but are seeking to conduct a research stay under the supervision of a UMCG researcher.

These non-degree experiences offer a valuable opportunity to build academic connections, gain research experience, and assess the potential for a longer-term collaboration.

How to explore a research match?

Before requesting matchmaking support, you should first check whether we offer expertise in your preferred area of research. You can do this by browsing the UMCG research website, which provides an overview of our three Research Institutes:

You may also explore the relevant departments listed on the UMCG website, which can help you identify potential supervisors or research groups.

Found a possible match? Here's what to do:

  • If you are a prospective PhD applicant, please complete the "Academic Matching Form – PhD" available for download below.

  • If you are a prospective internship applicant, please complete the "Academic Matching Form – Internship".

In both cases, submit the completed form along with your CV in English to the GSMS.

Academic Matchmaking Form