The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is pleased to announce its fully funded PhD scholarship program for the 2025 academic year, offering exceptional candidates the opportunity to pursue doctoral research in one of Europe’s most innovative and sustainable academic environments. Located in the picturesque town of Ås, just 30 minutes from Oslo, NMBU provides a unique research-focused education with strong emphasis on life sciences, environmental studies, and sustainable development.
Comprehensive Scholarship Overview
NMBU’s PhD scholarships for 2025 provide complete financial support for international and domestic students across all faculties:
- Full Tuition Coverage: No tuition fees for the entire 3-year program duration
- Competitive Salary: Annual salary of NOK 532,200 (approx. €50,000) before taxes
- Additional Benefits:
- Pension contributions (2% automatic deduction)
- Office space and research budget
- Paid maternity/paternity leave
- 25 days annual vacation
- Research Support:
- Annual travel grant (NOK 20,000) for conferences
- Access to specialized laboratory facilities
- Funding for fieldwork and data collection
Academic Programs and Research Focus Areas
NMBU offers PhD opportunities across seven faculties, with particular strengths in:
- Biosciences:
- Animal and Aquacultural Sciences
- Plant Sciences
- Ecology and Natural Resource Management
- Environmental Sciences and Technology:
- Environmental Physics
- Water and Environmental Engineering
- Renewable Energy Systems
- Veterinary Medicine:
- Comparative Clinical Sciences
- Food Safety and Infection Biology
- Veterinary Epidemiology
- Landscape and Society:
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Development Studies
- Public Health Science
- Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science:
- Food Chemistry
- Microbial Biotechnology
- Nutrition Biology
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for NMBU’s PhD scholarships, applicants must demonstrate:
- Academic Qualifications:
- 5-year Norwegian Master’s degree or equivalent international qualification
- Minimum grade average of B (or equivalent) in relevant coursework
- Strong research component in previous studies
- Language Proficiency:
- English fluency (IELTS 6.5/TOEFL 90 for non-native speakers)
- Norwegian skills beneficial for certain projects but not required
- Research Potential:
- Clear alignment between applicant’s background and project requirements
- Demonstrated capacity for independent research
- Strong academic writing skills
- Additional Requirements:
- Meet Norwegian study permit requirements (for international students)
- Physical ability to conduct required research (for fieldwork-intensive projects)
Application Timeline and Process
Key Dates for 2025 Admissions:
- Application Period Opens: September 1, 2024
- Priority Deadline: May 31, 2025
Application Process:
- Identify Suitable Projects:
- Browse advertised positions on NMBU’s job portal
- Contact potential supervisors for informal discussions
- Prepare Application Package:
- Cover letter outlining motivation and qualifications
- Complete CV including publications (if any)
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and diplomas
- Research proposal (for open calls)
- Contact information for 2-3 academic references
- Submit Application:
- Complete online application through NMBU’s recruitment system
- Upload all required documents in PDF format
- Ensure all materials are in English or Norwegian
- Selection Process:
- Faculty-level review by expert committees
- Interviews (in-person or virtual) for shortlisted candidates
- Final approval by the PhD committee
Why Choose NMBU for Your PhD?
- Research Excellence:
- Ranked among Norway’s top research universities
- 15 specialized research centers
- Strong publication record in high-impact journals
- Unique Learning Environment:
- Close collaboration between students and supervisors
- Interdisciplinary research culture
- State-of-the-art campus facilities
- Career Development:
- Transferable skills training program
- Industry partnerships with leading Norwegian companies
- Excellent post-graduation employment rates
- Quality of Life:
- Safe, student-friendly campus environment
- Proximity to Oslo’s cultural amenities
- Access to Norway’s spectacular natural landscapes
Preparing a Competitive Application
To strengthen your application:
- Tailor Your Materials:
- Customize cover letter for each position
- Highlight relevant coursework and research experience
- Demonstrate clear understanding of the research project
- Develop Strong References:
- Choose referees familiar with your research capabilities
- Provide them with project information
- Ensure they can speak to your potential as a PhD candidate
- Showcase Research Skills:
- Detail laboratory/fieldwork experience
- Highlight statistical and technical competencies
- Include any conference presentations or publications
Life as an NMBU PhD Candidate
The 3-year program follows Norway’s structured PhD model:
- First Year:
- Completion of required coursework (30 ECTS)
- Refinement of research proposal
- Initial data collection
- Second Year:
- Intensive research phase
- Mid-term evaluation
- Conference participation
- Final Year:
- Completion of research projects
- Thesis writing and submission
- Preparation for oral defense
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there teaching requirements?
A: Most positions include 25% teaching duties (extending program to 4 years)
Q: Can I work while studying?
A: The scholarship is a full-time employment contract; additional work requires approval
Q: Is Norwegian language required?
A: No, but free Norwegian courses are available for international students
The NMBU PhD Scholarships 2025 represent an exceptional opportunity to conduct high-quality research in Norway’s leading life sciences university. With its generous funding package, supportive research environment, and focus on sustainability, NMBU offers ideal conditions for doctoral candidates to develop their academic careers.
Prospective applicants should carefully review advertised projects and begin preparing application materials well in advance. For complete details and current openings, visit the official NMBU PhD vacancies page. This prestigious scholarship could launch your research career in one of Europe’s most innovative academic institutions, surrounded by Norway’s breathtaking natural environment.
