Research

Utrecht University is a world-class university engaged in fundamental and applied research across a broad range of disciplines, from infectious diseases and human rights to climate research and cultural history. Each year, some 300 new PhD candidates begin their research. Around 25% of our PhD candidates come from outside the Netherlands. Utrecht University is home to staff and students from 130 different countries.

Attractive research environment

Utrecht University offers PhD candidates an attractive research environment. The quality of our research is reflected in high ratings in research assessments and international rankings. Candidates will have inspirational supervisors in our top-ranking researchers.

15 focus areas

Research at Utrecht University is clustered within 6 Graduate Schools and 15 focus areas. Within the 15 focus areas researchers collaborate with research organisations, industry and societal organisations. Its selection of research themes and integrated approach enable the university to develop solutions for contemporary social issues such as climate change, health, social cohesion and sustainability. Read more on the focus areas.

Share your ideas

Collaboration between PhD candidates conducting research at the interface of the various disciplines creates an atmosphere that is conducive to breakthroughs in knowledge. Utrecht University encourages this stimulating, multi-disciplinary approach to the sharing of ideas, methods and techniques.

Research groups and PhD candidates meet regularly to present their most recent work and exchange ideas. As a Utrecht PhD candidate, you will be able to draw on a wide range of concepts, techniques, contacts, viewpoints and practical tools.