MSCA Engineering PhD Scholarships 2026 in Europe

The REFFRACTEUR MSCA Doctoral Network is offering fully funded PhD opportunities for international students and early-stage researchers across Europe. The programme is funded under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions framework of Horizon Europe and focuses on sustainable industrial technologies, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, and digital manufacturing systems.

The doctoral network brings together European universities and industrial partners to train researchers in future-oriented engineering and materials science fields. Unlike traditional academic PhD programs, the REFFRACTEUR network combines scientific research with direct industrial collaboration and real-world manufacturing challenges.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Region: Europe
• Programme Name: REFFRACTEUR MSCA Doctoral Network
• Funded By: Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
• Degree Level: PhD
• Number of Positions: 15 Fully Funded PhD Positions
• Eligible Applicants: International Students and Early-Stage Researchers
• Fields of Study: Engineering, Materials Science, Applied Physics, AI, Simulation Engineering
• Funding Type: Fully Funded Employment-Based PhD Positions
• Application Deadline: June 8, 2026 

Selected doctoral researchers will receive:

• Fully funded PhD research positions
• Employment-style research contracts
• International mobility opportunities
• Collaboration with industrial partners
• Access to advanced European research networks
• Professional and transferable skills training
• Joint supervision by universities and industries
• Research placements in industrial environments
• Training in AI, sustainability, and digital engineering technologies

The programme is available for:

• Doctoral (PhD) studies

The REFFRACTEUR Doctoral Network focuses on innovative industrial and sustainability-related research topics, including:

• Carbon-neutral industrial technologies
• Sustainable steelmaking systems
• Refractory recycling technologies
• AI-driven industrial optimisation
• Digital twins and industrial simulations
• Thermomechanical modelling
• Industrial cloud platforms
• Smart manufacturing systems
• Digital product passports
• Advanced materials engineering

The programme is open to:

• International applicants from all countries
• Early-stage researchers meeting MSCA mobility requirements

Applicants should carefully review mobility rules before applying.

To apply for the programme, applicants must:

• Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification
• Have an academic background in engineering, physics, materials science, or related disciplines
• Meet Marie Skłodowska-Curie mobility requirements
• Demonstrate strong research interest in industrial sustainability and engineering technologies
• Show potential for interdisciplinary and collaborative research

Applicants with experience in modelling, AI systems, industrial simulation, or advanced manufacturing may have an advantage.

Applicants generally need to follow these steps:

1. Review available PhD research projects under the REFFRACTEUR network.
2. Select a research topic matching academic interests and background.
3. Prepare academic transcripts and degree certificates.
4. Submit a CV and motivation letter.
5. Prepare a research statement or supporting documents if required.
6. Complete the online application process before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early because positions are highly competitive.

Why Apply for the REFFRACTEUR MSCA PhD Programme?

This programme offers a strong combination of:

• Fully funded doctoral education in Europe
• Direct industry involvement and research exposure
• Advanced training in AI and sustainable manufacturing
• International research collaboration opportunities
• Improved employability in engineering and industrial R&D sectors
• Access to Europe’s growing green technology ecosystem

The programme is particularly valuable for students interested in sustainability, digital engineering, industrial innovation, and advanced manufacturing research.