FAQs

Can I apply for an IRB Barcelona PhD fellowship before I receive my undergraduate degree?
Yes, both recent graduates and students in the final year of their undergraduate degree may apply. You must however have finished your degree before taking up your position with IRB Barcelona.

What kind of background do I need to have to work at IRB Barcelona?
We are looking for highly motivated students from a wide range of fields in the area of the life sciences. Students with outstanding qualifications in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, computational sciences, physics, pharmacology, medicine and related fields are all encouraged to apply.

Should I contact a specific group which which I want to do my PhD activities before applying for the fellowship?
No. In the application form you will be asked to indicate your preference of 2 programmes. If you wish to work with a specific group, please indicate this in your cover letter.

When do I need to submit my application form and when will I be informed of the outcome?
The deadline for applications is Tuesday, January 25, 2011. Candidates will be invited for interviews during spring 2011.

Can I check the progress of my application once I have submitted?
The online application process will allow you to check the status of your application, including information on your letters of reference.

Do I need to register separately with a university to do my PhD at IRB Barcelona?
Yes. Students are free to register with the University of their choice, normally a local one (Universitat de Barcelona, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, or Universitat Pompeu Fabra). They complete their coursework at this university, while concurrently doing practical training and work toward their thesis in an IRB Barcelona research laboratory. Students generally spend up to four years at IRB Barcelona, after which they complete and defend their thesis.