Neuroscience Academy Denmark (NAD) PhD Fellowship Programme 2026

Omran Aburayya
4 days ago
3 min read

If you're passionate about neuroscience and seeking a fully funded PhD opportunity in a world-class research environment, the Neuroscience Academy Denmark (NAD) PhD Fellowship Programme 2026 is now open for applications. This prestigious 4-year program offers 16 fellowships to exceptional candidates eager to advance their careers in neuroscience research. With a unique structure that combines a preparatory pre-PhD year with a subsequent three-year PhD project, the program provides comprehensive training and networking opportunities across Denmark's leading neuroscience institutions.

🧠 Scholarship Summary

Location: Denmark (Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg)
Host Institutions: Aalborg University, Aarhus University, University of Copenhagen, University of Southern Denmark
Study Level: PhD (4-year program: 1-year pre-PhD + 3-year PhD)
Target Group: Graduates with MD or MSc in neuroscience or related fields
Fields of Study: Neuroscience (basic and clinical)
Funding: Fully funded (salary, tuition, and research expenses)
Duration: 4 years (2026–2029)
Application Deadline: August 11, 2025, 4:00 PM (CEST)
Start Date: January 1, 2026
Eligible To: International and domestic candidates meeting academic and language requirements

🧬 NAD Scholarship Overview

The NAD PhD Fellowship Programme is a collaborative national initiative uniting over 200 neuroscience laboratories across Denmark's top universities and university hospitals. Funded by the Lundbeck Foundation, the program emphasizes translational research, bridging basic science and clinical applications.

🧩 Program Structure

Pre-PhD Year (2026):
- Three lab rotations in different NAD-affiliated labs (January–September)
- Participation in specialized neuroscience courses and workshops
- Engagement in retreats and networking events
- Development of a PhD project proposal in collaboration with chosen supervisors (September–December)
PhD Project (2027–2029):
- Execution of the approved research project under supervision
- Completion of PhD courses totaling 30 ECTS credits
- Active participation in research environments, including potential international research stays
- Involvement in teaching and dissemination activities
- Preparation and defense of the PhD thesis

🎓NAD Fellowship Benefits

Full funding covering salary, tuition fees, and research expenses
Access to a vast network of over 200 neuroscience labs
Opportunities for interdisciplinary and translational research
Comprehensive training through courses, workshops, and lab rotations
Support in designing and executing a personalized PhD project
Participation in national and international networking events

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

Hold an MD or MSc in neuroscience, medicine, molecular biomedicine, biochemistry, pharmacology, biomedical engineering, bioinformatics, biology, psychology, computer science, or related fields
Demonstrate a strong interest and experience in neuroscience research
Possess excellent English language skills (TOEFL ≥ 560 written or IELTS ≥ 6.5), unless exempted
Be eligible for PhD enrollment at one of the participating Danish universities
Exhibit motivation, independence, and the ability to work collaboratively

📝 Application Procedure

📂 Required Documents:

Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages, no photo)
Names and contact information of 1–2 references
Certified copies of MSc and BSc diplomas (original and English translation)
Grade transcripts for both degrees (original and English translation)
English language proficiency test results (if applicable)
Selection of up to two scientific papers with explanations for their relevance

📝 Application Process:

Submit the application through the NAD online portal by August 11, 2025, 4:00 PM (CEST)
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews via Zoom in September 2025
Final selection and job offers will be made in October 2025
Selected fellows are encouraged to attend the NAD Annual Meeting in November 2025