Let’s designate 13 May as European Doctoral Day
27 August 2025
In a Europe that upholds science and research as core values, designating 13 May as European Doctoral Day would affirm the importance of doctoral education, candidates, and PhD holders. At the Coimbra Group, we see them as essential drivers of innovation, crucial for tackling the challenges of a changing world, and key to Europe’s scientific excellence, societal resilience, and global leadership.
A European Doctoral Day would enhance the attractiveness of doctoral education for both European and international students, increase employers’ recognition of doctoral qualifications, and highlight the diverse career paths and societal impact of PhD graduates.
Participating institutions will be invited to organise local events with their socio-economic partners on or around 13 May, starting with the first edition in 2026. A shared communication charter and common platform will ensure visibility across Europe, while existing events can be leveraged to showcase success stories and inspire wider participation.
The Coimbra Group was among the first to support this initiative, launched by the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research. Our Doctoral Studies Working Group, represented by its Chair Adriana Zait (Iași) and Vice-Chair Elise Pinta (Turku), contributes to the European coordination committee.
Already, more than 200 universities and organisations have endorsed the proposal, including several Coimbra Group members. We warmly encourage more universities, companies, and networks to join this initiative. Any interested institution can add their support via this online questionnaire. Together, let’s make 13 May the European Doctoral Day!