ERNOP Opens Applications for the 2026 PhD Circle
The European Research Network on Philanthropy (ERNOP) is pleased to announce the launch of the application process for the 2026 PhD Circle, an exclusive program for European PhD students in philanthropy aimed at fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence in philanthropic research. This initiative builds on the success of the 2024 and 2025 PhD Circles, offering a supportive, interactive environment where emerging scholars can exchange ideas, receive valuable feedback, and enhance the impact of their work.
Through bi-monthly online meetings, selected PhD students will present their research, discuss their findings, and engage in constructive dialogues with both their peers and a senior ERNOP scholar in philanthropy. Each participant will have a dedicated 60-minute session (15-minute presentation followed by 45 minutes of feedback and discussion), enabling in-depth exploration of specific research challenges. Students are encouraged to use this platform to receive critical insights on areas of their research from group members and the program’s senior mentor.
Supporting the Next Generation of Scholars ERNOP’s PhD Circle program underscores its commitment to advancing philanthropy research by nurturing the next generation of scholars. The program also invites participants to contribute to ERNOP’s blog series, “Philanthropy PhD Perspectives: From Theory to Impact“, featuring insights on both ERNOP’s website and LinkedIn. By sharing their expertise, students can reach broader audiences, expand their professional networks, and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in philanthropy.
Eligibility and Application Process The ERNOP PhD Circle is open to PhD students across all nations and disciplines who are currently researching topics related to philanthropy. Applications will be accepted until December 7, 2025, with notifications of acceptance sent by December 19. Participation is free of charge for ERNOP members.
Application Guidelines:
To apply, candidates must submit a single file containing:
- A brief motivation letter (250 words), including their expected outcomes from the program, current year of study, supervisor’s name, university affiliation, and the primary discipline of their dissertation.
- A 500-word abstract describing either a working paper to be presented or an overview of the PhD project.
The program will run on a bi-monthly basis with 1.5-hour meetings, beginning in February and concluding in November 2026.
Apply Today
Apply here: https://www.formdesk.com/vuamsterdam/PhDcircle2026
For more information, please contact Barry Hoolwerf (b.hoolwerf @ernop.eu)