Every year, around 500 doctoral degrees (PhDs) are conferred at the University of Amsterdam (UvA). Two-thirds of doctoral positions are in the fields of the natural sciences and medicine, and a third are in social and behavioural sciences, humanities, economics and law. In total, there are around 2,000 PhD candidates carrying out doctoral research.

Why do a PhD at the UvA?
The UvA is a leading international university where excellent doctoral research is key. The UvA's 20 research priority areas form the basis of the research profile. In many disciplines, the UvA's academic research ranks among the best in the world and, as a result, the university competes very successfully for external research funding at both the national and international level. In recent decades, UvA researchers regularly receive prestigious awards and grants, both nationally and internationally.
Stimulating research environment 

The UvA offers a stimulating and innovative research environment where the talents of doctoral researchers can be optimally developed. Known for its critical, creative and international climate and for its welcoming atmosphere, the UvA is made up of independent thinkers who love research and who have the courage to ask questions and to disagree with one another. The UvA has close links with the city and the local area and, over the next few years, plans to build four open city campuses where academic disciplines converge and the links with society and industry are strengthened.

European network
With over 30,000 students and 6,000 staff (employed in teaching, research and support positions), the UvA is of one of Europe’s major universities. The UvA is a member of various international consortia of universities and research institutes. It is also a member of the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and the global network Universitas21.