Applications are now open for the ELLIS PhD Program 2027 in Europe, offering aspiring researchers an opportunity to pursue doctoral research in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and related fields under the guidance of leading European researchers.
The European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems (ELLIS) connects outstanding researchers, universities, and industry partners to advance scientific research in AI and machine learning. Through its PhD programme, prospective doctoral candidates can apply to work with participating researchers across Europe and benefit from international collaboration, joint supervision, and research networking opportunities.
The programme welcomes qualified applicants from different countries, including international candidates outside Europe. Applications for the 2027 intake must be submitted through the official ELLIS application portal by October 31, 2026.
Candidates interested in AI research, computer science, machine learning, and related disciplines should review the programme structure, admission requirements, funding arrangements, and application process before applying.
About the ELLIS PhD Program 2027
The ELLIS PhD Program is part of the European Laboratory for Learning and Intelligent Systems initiative, a pan-European research network focused on strengthening excellence in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
The programme connects doctoral researchers with experienced academic and industry researchers to encourage collaborative research and international knowledge exchange.
Successful candidates work with supervisors within the ELLIS network and pursue their doctoral degrees through the relevant degree-awarding universities or institutions. Depending on the selected track, research may involve collaboration between universities or between academic institutions and industry partners.
The initiative also provides opportunities to participate in research workshops, summer schools, networking events, and other academic activities.
It is important to understand that ELLIS operates as a research and recruitment network rather than a university that independently awards PhD degrees. Candidates must satisfy the admission and employment requirements of their host institutions.
Benefits of the ELLIS PhD Program
Selected doctoral researchers can benefit from several academic and professional development opportunities.
These may include:
- Joint supervision by experienced researchers within the ELLIS network.
- Opportunities to collaborate with leading European AI and machine learning research groups.
- Access to academic workshops, summer schools, winter schools, and research events.
- Opportunities for international research exchanges and collaboration.
- Research and conference travel support through participating advisors, subject to applicable arrangements.
- Connections with academic researchers and industry professionals.
- Opportunities to contribute to research addressing important challenges in artificial intelligence.
- An ELLIS certificate and membership for participants who fulfil the programme requirements.
The programme is particularly relevant to candidates who want to develop an international research career in AI, machine learning, or related technical disciplines.
Funding information: The ELLIS Society does not generally employ or directly fund PhD students. Financial support is arranged through the relevant supervisors and their institutions, and may take the form of a salary, stipend, or another funding arrangement. Funding amounts, benefits, and eligibility conditions vary by institution and position. Applicants should confirm the available funding before accepting an offer.
Research Areas
The ELLIS PhD Program focuses on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and associated research disciplines.
Depending on the participating advisor and available research positions, candidates may explore areas such as:
- Machine learning and deep learning.
- Computer vision and visual computing.
- Natural language processing.
- Statistical learning and probabilistic modelling.
- Robotics and intelligent systems.
- Reinforcement learning.
- Responsible, reliable, and trustworthy artificial intelligence.
- AI applications in science, engineering, and other disciplines.
Research opportunities depend on the supervisors participating in the current recruitment round. Applicants should consult the official advisor directory to identify researchers whose interests align with their proposed research direction.
ELLIS PhD Program Tracks
The programme offers three main tracks designed for different research and career objectives.
1. Academic Track
This pathway focuses on doctoral research involving two academic institutions located in different European countries. Students receive joint supervision and undertake a research exchange at the secondary partner institution for at least six months, which may be divided into multiple visits.
2. Industry Track
This option combines academic research with collaboration involving a European company. Candidates work with academic and industry supervisors, with the programme requiring at least six months of cumulative time at the industry partner and a minimum of 50% of the research time in academia.
3. Interdisciplinary Track
This pathway supports doctoral research combining complementary expertise across academic institutions or research disciplines. The main advisor must supervise at least 50% of the research time, while the secondary advisor’s location must be visited for at least six months cumulatively.
The specific requirements, institutional arrangements, and available positions depend on the selected track and participating partners.
Who Can Apply for the ELLIS PhD Program 2027?
The programme is open to qualified candidates from around the world. European citizenship is not a general requirement, so eligible applicants from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and other regions can apply.
Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic background and the potential to conduct high-quality doctoral research in AI, machine learning, or a related discipline.
The opportunity may be suitable for:
- Graduates with relevant qualifications in computer science, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or related fields.
- Candidates with a strong interest in artificial intelligence and machine learning research.
- Applicants with previous research experience, academic projects, publications, or a relevant thesis.
- Prospective doctoral researchers whose interests align with participating ELLIS advisors.
- International students seeking doctoral research opportunities in Europe.
Meeting the general expectations does not guarantee admission. Applicants must also satisfy the requirements of their prospective supervisors and the degree-awarding institution.
Application Requirements and Documents
Candidates should prepare their application materials before beginning the online submission process.
The official ELLIS recruitment guidelines identify the following requirements:
- Completed online application form.
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
- Motivation letter.
- Academic transcripts.
- At least two reference letters, with a maximum of three.
- Relevant information about academic qualifications, research interests, and experience.
Applicants may also submit supporting materials, such as a thesis, research publications, or a project portfolio, where appropriate.
Your motivation letter should explain why you want to pursue doctoral research, your relevant experience, your research interests, and why the selected advisors are a suitable match for your goals.
Your CV should highlight relevant technical skills, research projects, publications, academic achievements, and experience with AI or machine learning where applicable.
Reference letters should come from people who can credibly assess your academic performance and research potential.
All documents should follow the official application instructions. Some universities or research positions may require additional applications or documents.
Application Deadline for the ELLIS PhD Program 2027
The deadline for the current central recruitment round is October 31, 2026, at 23:59 Anywhere on Earth (AoE).
Important dates include:
- September 30, 2026: Virtual information session.
- October 1, 2026: Application portal opens.
- October 31, 2026: Application deadline.
- November–December 2026: Application review stage.
- January–February 2027: Interview stage.
- Late February–March 2027: Expected decisions.
The start date will depend on the selected supervisor and host institution rather than a single programme-wide date.
Applicants should arrange their references early. The official announcement states that applications missing the required reference letters by November 25, 2026, at 23:59 AoE will be considered incomplete and excluded from the selection process.
Candidates should not wait until the last day to register, upload documents, and request references.
Tips for a Strong Application
Competition for doctoral research opportunities can be significant. Applicants can strengthen their submissions by preparing carefully.
First, research the participating supervisors and select those whose work closely matches your interests.
Second, demonstrate your research potential through academic projects, a relevant thesis, technical experience, publications, or other evidence of your ability to undertake independent research.
Third, write a clear motivation letter that explains your research goals and why the ELLIS network is a suitable environment for your development.
Finally, request reference letters well before the deadline and check whether any additional university applications are required.
A focused, well-documented application is more useful than a generic submission sent to researchers whose work does not match your background.
How to Apply for the ELLIS PhD Program 2027
Follow these steps to submit an application:
- Visit the official ELLIS PhD application portal.
- Register for an account to obtain access to the application system.
- Review the participating advisors and available research opportunities.
- Identify potential supervisors whose research interests match your academic background.
- Complete the application form, including your qualifications, experience, and research preferences.
- Upload your CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, and other required documents.
- Provide the details of at least two suitable referees and follow the portal instructions for reference letters.
- Check whether your chosen institution requires a separate application for admission or funding.
- Review all information and submit the complete application before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students apply for the ELLIS PhD Program 2027?
Yes. The programme welcomes qualified applicants regardless of nationality. Candidates must still meet the requirements of the relevant supervisor and host institution.
Is the ELLIS PhD Program fully funded?
Not automatically. Funding is arranged through participating supervisors and institutions, and the available financial support varies by position. Applicants should verify the terms of each opportunity.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for the 2027 intake is October 31, 2026, at 23:59 AoE.
Do I need a master’s degree to apply?
Academic admission requirements depend on the relevant university and doctoral position. Candidates should check the requirements of their intended host institution before applying.
Where will successful candidates study?
Doctoral research takes place at the relevant participating institutions in Europe. The location depends on the selected advisor, university, and programme track.
Does ELLIS award the PhD degree?
No. The degree is awarded by the relevant degree-granting institution. Eligible participants who fulfil the programme requirements may receive an ELLIS certificate.
Where can I submit my application?
Applications must be submitted through the official portal at https://apply.ellis.eu/.
Final Thoughts
The ELLIS PhD Program 2027 offers a valuable opportunity for aspiring researchers to pursue doctoral research in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and related fields through collaboration with leading researchers across Europe.
With opportunities for joint supervision, research exchanges, and academic networking, the programme may appeal to candidates seeking to develop expertise in advanced AI research.
International applicants should carefully review the available advisors, prepare the required documents, and confirm the funding and admission conditions associated with their chosen institution.
The application deadline is October 31, 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to begin the process early and submit a complete application through the official portal.
Disclaimer: OpportunityShape shares educational opportunities, scholarships, fellowships, research programmes, and other openings to help readers discover relevant opportunities. We are not the programme organizer and are not affiliated with or representing ELLIS. We do not guarantee admission, selection, funding, employment, or any other outcome. Funding availability, eligibility criteria, benefits, and application requirements may vary by institution and position. Applicants should verify all information through the official ELLIS website and the relevant host institution before applying. OpportunityShape is not responsible for changes made by programme organizers or for application outcomes.
