Call for Submissions: Barrande Fellowship Programme (Czech Republic and France)

Deadline: 29-Jan-2026

The Barrande Fellowship and Exchange Mobility Programme enables Ph.D. students from the Czech Republic and France to gain international research experience through cotutelle (dual-degree) or short-term research stays. The initiative spans all scientific fields, promotes bilateral cooperation, and provides financial support for living and research costs.

Program Overview

The Barrande Fellowship Programme and Exchange Mobility Programme are collaborative initiatives between the Embassy of France to the Czech Republic and the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MYES). The programs aim to:

• Foster international scientific collaboration between French and Czech research teams

• Support Ph.D. students in gaining advanced expertise abroad

• Strengthen bilateral academic relations between France and the Czech Republic

The programs are open to all scientific fields, with particular encouragement for applications in environmental sciences, energy, mathematics, and information technologies.

Fellowship Types

1. Cotutelle (Dual-Degree Ph.D.)

• Duration: Up to 3 years with alternating research stays in France and the Czech Republic

• Financial Support: Monthly stipend of ~€1,770 in France / 35,000 CZK in the Czech Republic

• Outcome: Graduates receive two doctoral diplomas, one from each partner institution

• Focus: Long-term international research collaboration and skill development

2. Short-Term Research Stays

• Duration: 1–3 consecutive months

• Financial Support: ~€1,704 / 40,000 CZK in France, 35,000 CZK in the Czech Republic

• Purpose: Focused research visits for project-specific goals

• Eligibility: Ph.D. students who identify a supervisor at the host institution

Who is Eligible?

• Enrollment: Must be enrolled in a Ph.D. program at a French or Czech higher education institution

• Diploma Requirement: Must hold a higher education diploma before beginning the research stay

• Language: English is accepted if approved by the host supervisor

• Cotutelle Specifics: Must comply with admission procedures of both faculties

How It Works

1. Prepare Application Package:

   • Academic CV

   • Cover letter

   • Research project description

   • Recommendation letters

   • Academic transcripts

2. Submit Application: By January 29, 2026

3. Evaluation Process:

   • Review of submitted documents

   • Interviews assessing research quality, preparedness, and international collaboration potential

4. Notification: Selected fellows are informed following evaluation

5. Participation: Option to attend an award ceremony hosted by the French Embassy or French Institute in Prague

Financial & Practical Support

• Cotutelle: Stipend for living expenses in both countries, with funding provided throughout research stays

• Short-Term Stay: One-time stipend for the duration of the visit

• Accommodation: Students should plan early, particularly in France where housing demand is high; universities provide support options

Tips for Applicants

• Align your research with bilateral cooperation goals

• Identify and secure a supervisor at the host institution

• Prepare strong recommendation letters highlighting your research capabilities and international potential

• Plan accommodation and logistical needs in advance

FAQ

1. Who can apply?
   Ph.D. students enrolled in Czech or French institutions with a higher education diploma.

2. Which fields are eligible?
   All scientific disciplines; priority areas include environmental sciences, energy, mathematics, and IT.

3. What is cotutelle?
   A dual-degree Ph.D. arrangement where students spend up to three years at partner institutions and earn two diplomas.

4. What are short-term research stays?
   Focused research visits lasting 1–3 months with financial support and academic supervision.

5. Is English accepted?
   Yes, if approved by the host supervisor.

6. What is the application deadline?
   January 29, 2026.

7. What financial support is provided?
   Monthly stipends: €1,770/1,704 in France or 35,000–40,000 CZK in the Czech Republic, depending on program type.

Conclusion

The Barrande Fellowship and Exchange Mobility Programme offers Ph.D. students a unique opportunity to gain international research experience, develop cross-border collaborations, and enhance skills in their respective scientific fields. By participating, students contribute to stronger French-Czech academic ties and advance their careers through exposure to global research environments.

For more information, visit IFP.