Application Process

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How many calls for applications will there be? 

The DREAM+PLAN Program will launch one call for applicants (from January until March 2025). A second contingency call may open at a later date only if any positions remained unfilled.

 

Can I send part of my application/or supporting documents by post or by e-mail?

No, applications and all supporting documents must be submitted electronically through the application portal (SideRoom).

 

Where can I find more information on how to use the application portal?

The portal is user-friendly and intuitive, and there is a manual available should you need additional support.​

 

Can I submit more than one application?

You can submit only 1 application but may choose up to three positions. If you wish to apply for more than one position, you must indicate it in your application and update your motivation essay accordingly.

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Note that you are not allowed to apply for more than three positions. In case you wish to withdraw an application, contact DREAM+PLAN Helpdesk (info@dreamplusplan.eu) at least 5 days prior to the deadline.

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Do I need to submit different motivation letters for each different position?

No. Your motivation letter should reflect your interest in all the positions you are applying to.

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How long does the Motivation Essay need to be? 
There is no established length minimum / limit for the Motivation Essay, and we allow flexibility for the candidates to explain their motivation for the chosen position(s). Usually, those letters are around a maximum of 2-3 pages, but there is flexibility for this application to each applicant's needs. 

 

Are references required at application, or will they be required only if I get shortlisted?

2 references are required. You must provide the names and email addresses of at least two referees in your application. They will be asked to provide their references online via the application portal by 15th March 2025. Important: you are responsible for ensuring that your referees submit their reference letters before the deadline.

 

Should I reach out to the Supervisor Team before applying?

No, do not contact the supervisors. For any questions, reach out to info@dreamplusplan.eu.

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What should my 3-minute video Research Pitch cover?
While we do not want to prescribe how you approach this task, here are some suggested guidelines for your video: ​

• start with a captivating opening;

• explain how your research would align with Driving Climate Positive Futures and addresses resilience, restoration, or regeneration;

• define the challenge or gap your research tackles;

• share your vision, innovative ideas, and potential solutions;

• highlight expected outcomes and societal or environmental benefits.

• speak clearly and naturally. Maintain an easy-to-follow pace and avoid repeating content from your motivation letter.

 

Eligibility

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I already have a PhD degree – can I apply?

No, candidates already holding a PhD degree are not eligible.

 

I am currently finishing my MSc. Is it still okay to apply for the positions?

To be eligible, the master’s degree needs to be completed, incl. defense of the thesis, no later than July 1st, 2025. (this date can be different depending on the host university). If you are currently enrolled, you must submit your provisional degree and transcripts, ensuring they are official (stamped and signed by the university). If they are not in English, you must also submit a translation in English. Don’t forget to submit all your past higher education degrees and transcripts (e.g. Bachelor’s). Applicants who do not submit these documents will be deemed ineligible.

 

I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in the Recruiting University’s country. Am I eligible in regard to the mobility rule?

You are eligible only if you have not been living in this country for more than 12 months (in total) between March 2022 and March 2025. To prove your compliance with the mobility rule, please make sure that your CV clearly indicates the countries and exact dates of your previous experiences and study periods.

 

Is there an age limit for application?

No, there is no age limit, but all the eligibility criteria must be met.

 

How do I prove my English proficiency?

All applicants must be proficient in English, but the evidence you need to provide can vary from institution to institution, so it is best to check the Position Description for the PhD you are interested in.

 

When is the maximum date to submit my English certificate?

You will be required to submit a proof of English proficiency before enrolling at the host universities if you are the preferred candidate. In this sense, if you do not have a certificate by the time you submit your application, you may instead include a proof that you commit to pass the required test before the interview phase. Note that if you do not pass the test or obtain the required results, your application can be disregarded.

 

My application has been rejected and I think there has been a mistake. What can I do?

If your application is not successful and you think there has been an error or shortcoming in the way your application was evaluated, you can submit a request for redress. You will need to follow the process detailed in the Guide for Applicants. 

 

Selection and Enrolment

 

What are the next steps for successful candidates?

The successful candidates will:

1. complete the required steps for enrolling in a PhD program at both host institutions;

2. be recruited by the corresponding European host institution under a fixed-term (48 months) full-time employment contract, including social security coverage;

3. relocate to the employing institution’s country.

 

Will the candidate need to cover university tuition fees?

If your application is successful, you will be exempted from tuition fees at both universities (you may have to pay them and get reimbursed by your employer).

 

​Do I have to work from the country where the research is hosted?

Recruited doctoral candidates must work from the premises of their host organisation.

 

Does DREAM+PLAN help with the relocation of candidates from their current country of residence to their employing country?

DREAM+PLAN fellows will benefit from a competitive monthly salary, which should cover all their needs for relocating. The host institution’s team should assist the fellows with the administrative aspects of the relocation, in particular applying for a visa or any other registration process. Yet, they will not receive extra financial support.

 

If successful, are there any restrictions on whether a PhD Candidate can obtain funding from other sources?

Yes, there are restrictions on holding funding from other sources. In line with MSCA requirements, all candidates must ensure they can commit 100% of their time to DREAM+PLAN. This means that additional work cannot be undertaken. However, additional resources (i.e., non-salary components) to support travel costs or secondment costs can be applied for and used. Candidates are encouraged to apply for additional funding for such cases, as long as it does not come from other Horizon Europe programs.