The ICIQ Severo Ochoa Predoctoral Fellowships offer an exceptional opportunity to join a world-class research program at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) in partnership with the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV).
These fully-funded PhD studentships focus on cutting-edge research in Innovative Catalysis, Renewable Energy Vectors, and Molecular Medicine, preparing you for a successful career in academia or industry. You can also checkout 51 Fully Funded Marie Curie PhD Scholarships in Gen-Q Quantum Science Programme
Why Apply for This Fellowship?
The ICIQ Severo Ochoa Fellowships provide a comprehensive training experience, including:
- Individual Research Projects: Work on a multidisciplinary thesis project under the supervision of two ICIQ Group Leaders, aligned with ICIQ’s strategic research areas.
- SHARP Training Program: A tailored two-week annual program covering technical skills (e.g., scientific instrumentation, IP management) and soft skills (e.g., communication, career development).
- International Opportunities: Short-term placements at prestigious research institutions abroad.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access cutting-edge tools and a stimulating scientific environment.
- Full Funding: Covers salary, PhD enrollment fees, and international research stays for up to 4 years.
Interested in More PhD Positions? Follow links below
Available Research Projects
Choose one of the following exciting PhD projects:
- Magnetically-Enhanced Photocatalysis for Selective Oxidation of Organic Molecules
- Supervisor: Prof. J. R. Galán-Mascarós
- Co-supervisor: Prof. Katherine Villa Gómez
- Activation of Methane by Gold Carbenes
- Supervisor: Prof. Antonio M. Echavarren
- Co-supervisor: Prof. Feliu Maseras
- Unveiling C(sp3)–H Activation Principles in Cp*Co(III) Catalysis
- Supervisor: Prof. Mónica H. Pérez-Temprano
- Co-supervisor: Prof. Jordi Burés
- Unravelling the Mechanistic Intricacies of Catalytic Chain-Walking Reactions
- Supervisor: Prof. Jordi Burés
- Co-supervisor: Prof. Ruben Martin
- Nanotechnology for Energy Applications
- Supervisor: Prof. Antoni Llobet
- Co-supervisor: Prof. Beatriz Prieto-Simón
- Bio-Inspired Redox Nickel Catalysis for Activation of Strong C–Cl Bonds
- Supervisor: Prof. Julio Lloret-Fillol
- Co-supervisor: Prof. Feliu Maseras
Check also: 15 Research Associate Positions (Doctoral Candidates) at MARUM, University of Bremen
Eligibility Requirements
To apply, you must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Physics, Chemical Engineering, Pharmacy, or related fields by October 2025.
- Not hold a PhD degree or have previously received a predoctoral fellowship under Spain’s ‘Plan Estatal de Investigación’ or similar national plans.
- Demonstrate a strong academic record, commitment to scientific research, and a good working knowledge of English (B2 level or equivalent recommended, but not mandatory for non-native speakers).
For questions about eligibility, contact ICIQ’s Human Resources Unit at [email protected] before applying.
Check also: 18 Fully Funded PhD Vacancies at the Technical University of Denmark
Application Process
Applications are accepted online only through ICIQ’s Career Portal. Key details:
- Application Period: June 16, 2025 – July 18, 2025 (midnight, Spain time).
- Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (max 2 pages, PDF): Include education, research experience, publications, awards, and contact details for two references.
- Personal Statement (max 2 pages, PDF): Describe your academic background, research experience, career goals, preferred ICIQ research group, and alignment with the fellowship.
- Official Transcripts (BSc and MSc, PDF): Include certified academic records. For non-Catalan/Spanish/English records, provide a certified English translation with grading scales and passing marks.
- English Proficiency (optional): Submit a B2 certificate, IELTS 6, or equivalent. Native English speakers from the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand are exempt.
- Reference Contacts: Provide details for two professors or researchers who can assess your potential. ICIQ will contact them if you’re shortlisted.
- Important Notes:
- Select only one thesis project.
- Incomplete applications or those sent via email will not be considered.
- You’ll receive an acknowledgment email upon successful submission.
Also read: Fully Funded Research Opportunities at Trinity College Dublin
Evaluation Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic and Scientific Record (up to 50 points):
- Academic achievements, research experience, and suitability for the project (45 points).
- International mobility and research stays (5 points).
- Suitability for the Research Project (up to 50 points): Alignment of your skills and experience with the chosen project and ICIQ’s goals.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a personal interview. Final decisions will be announced by August 29, 2025.
Check also: UBD Graduate Research Scholarship 2025-2026
Fellowship Benefits
- Salary:
- Year 1: €19,479.01/year
- Years 2–4: €24,348.77/year (subject to updates per Spanish regulations)
- Duration: Up to 4 years, renewable annually based on performance.
- Additional Funding: Covers PhD enrollment fees and international research stays.
- Social Security: Full coverage under the Spanish system, including healthcare, pension, and unemployment benefits.
- Employment Contract: Regulated under Spanish Law 14/2011 as research personnel in training.
- Career Support: Access to ICIQ’s HR Unit and Severo Ochoa Project Manager for ongoing guidance.
Also Read: Max Planck Doucet Scholarship 2026
Key Dates
- Application Opens: June 16, 2025
- Application Deadline: July 18, 2025
- Evaluation Period: July–August 2025
- Final Decision: August 29, 2025
- Program Start: Q4 2025 or Q1 2026
About ICIQ
The Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ) is a globally recognized research center tackling challenges like climate change and human health. With two Severo Ochoa accreditations, ICIQ hosts 250 researchers across 19 groups, focusing on sustainable catalysis, renewable energy, and molecular medicine. Located in Tarragona, Spain, ICIQ collaborates with industry and is part of the Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST).
How to Apply
Ready to take the next step? Visit ICIQ’s Career Portal to submit your application by July 18, 2025. For more details, check the Severo Ochoa page or contact [email protected].
