PhD candidates training and career information

The Radboudumc Graduate School fosters a dynamic training environment where PhD candidates are encouraged to obtain the competencies required to take their next career step to either academic or non-academic functions.

It plays a vital role in training the next generation of scientists and professionals. It acts as a magnet for global talent and as a vibrant hub where local and international perspectives meet and enrich each other.

Hora Finita

The fully integrated PhD monitoring system Hora Finita, tracks progress with a checkpoint system (evaluation meetings) and confidential questionnaires for the PhD candidates.

With integrated support, we help PhD candidates receive timely guidance so that they can complete their PhD within the specified time.

Career prospects

Our Graduate School is committed to preparing PhD candidates for meaningful careers both within and beyond academia.

From the outset, we emphasize the development of transferable skills, such as critical thinking, research integrity, project leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration that are valued across a wide range of sectors. This broad focus has ensured that 95% of our PhD candidates secured a follow-up position immediately after graduation. While 55% continued in academia, a substantial share transitioned directly into other healthcare functions outside a university medical center or in industry, consultancy, or public policy.

Rather than training exclusively for academic roles, we equip our PhD candidates to become professionals who contribute to solving complex challenges across society. Career development is structurally embedded in our training program through regular checkpoint meetings, mentoring, and dedicated initiatives such as courses and (recurring) events.

Our SCP provides clarity, flexibility and sustainability. Tailored to both current and future researchers, and the ever-evolving research landscape, the path consists of effective steps for a future in research.

The SCP supports researchers at all career stages: from PhD candidates and postdocs, to senior researchers and professors. It is open for internal and external candidates, and designed to offer clear and supportive development pathways.

More information can be found on the SCP main page.

Our PhD community is represented by the Radboudumc PhD council.

The council meets regularly with Radboudumc's scientific director and our Graduate School coordinator. Furthermore, it provides feedback on policies and organizes key events like the annual PhD Retreat, Career Event, peer-to-peer meetings, workshops, and social gatherings.

Joining the PhD council is a great opportunity to further develop yourself and get to know the research landscape of Radboudumc even better.

More information about the PhD council can be found on this page (intranet)

You can contact our Graduate School using this form.

Our partner Radboud University set up the Donders Graduate School. All Radboudumc PhD candidates are embedded in either the Radboudumc Graduate School or the Donders Graduate School.

The Donders PhD trajectory differs slightly from the Radboudumc Graduate School PhD Trajectory.

More information on the Donders Graduate School can be found on their website.

• A combination of life sciences, health sciences and clinical practice, with an impressive infrastructure.
• An environment focused on cross-disciplinary research divided into research programs where the main aim is to achieve relevant translations to care and cure solutions and so have a significant impact on healthcare.
• Researchers at all levels are given a tailored-made program that includes individual coaching.
• Plenty of opportunities to further develop your professional competencies by means of talent management programs as well as extra courses in a variety of disciplines.
• A joint campus with Radboud University, strengthening its position as a research and learning facility.
• Support in finding accommodation and requesting work and resident permits.
• PhD and postdoc salaries are higher compared to many other European countries and the USA.
• Advantageous terms and conditions of employment.

• "Old City, Young Vibe" - the oldest city of the Netherlands offers many social and cultural activities and is known as a vibrant student city.
• An internationally orientated city with international airports nearby and ideally centered with cities as Amsterdam, Brussels and Dusseldorf just a few hours’ drive away.
• Scenic nature, which includes the river Waal and its beaches and surrounding landscapes like the Ooijpolder.
• Excellent public transport.
• Safe bike and walking paths.
• Holds international sports events such as the International Four Days Marches, the Zevenheuvelen Run, Marieken Run and is home to the professional soccer club NEC, which plays at the highest level in the Netherlands.

• Dutch scientific research is rated disproportionately high internationally.
• Most people can speak English very well, making it easier to communicate.
• Reduction in tax for immigrants with specialized knowledge. Subject to conditions, candidates can apply for ‘Expatriate status’, sometimes known as ‘the 30% rule’ where the first 30% of your gross income is tax-free.
• Subject to conditions, 40% tax reduction on mortgage interest rates when buying a house.
• In nearly all situations, the partner is also allowed to work in the Netherlands.