2nd edition of the EELISA PhD Symposium
On 3 November 2026, the second edition of the EELISA PhD Symposium will take place at the School, followed by a morning session at Université PSL on 4 November. Focusing on the role of innovation throughout the research journey, the event will bring together doctoral candidates from the member institutions of the EELISA European University Alliance. Applications are open until 18 September 2026.
How can academic research have a greater impact on society? How can innovation help transform scientific discoveries into practical solutions?
Following the success of its first edition, the EELISA PhD Symposium returns for two days of keynote sessions, workshops and discussions addressing these questions. Jointly organised by the School and Université PSL, the event will provide early-career researchers with an international environment that encourages learning, collaboration and the development of new scientific networks.
Innovation at the heart of the doctoral journey
This second edition will focus on innovation as an essential dimension of research. Participants will be encouraged to reflect on how their work can generate scientific, societal and economic impact, while also responding more directly to society’s needs.
The symposium aims in particular to foster interdisciplinary exchanges, strengthen links between doctoral candidates from the different member institutions and further consolidate the EELISA research community.
Doctoral candidates will have the opportunity to share their research, compare approaches and develop new perspectives through discussions with researchers, experts and innovators from several European countries.
Keynote sessions and practical workshops
The provisional programme will include keynote sessions dedicated to innovation and research impact, as well as several interactive workshops.
Participants will have the opportunity to explore the following topics
- intellectual property, to gain a better understanding of how patents, copyright, trademarks and know-how can protect research findings and enhance their value
- inclusive innovation, through reflection on the influence of unconscious bias in research and innovation
- value proposition design, to learn how to identify the needs addressed by a research project and clearly communicate its value
- open science, to explore how openness, knowledge sharing and collaboration can strengthen the visibility, quality and impact of research
A public-speaking workshop will also help doctoral candidates develop their ability to present their research clearly and confidently to a wide range of audiences.
Call for applications
The symposium is open to doctoral candidates from all EELISA member institutions. Each institution may select up to ten participants.
Applications must include:
- an abstract presenting the applicant’s research
- a motivation letter explaining their interest in the symposium
Selection results will be communicated at the beginning of October by the EELISA Local Office at each applicant’s home institution.
- Dates: 3 and 4 November 2026
- Location: Paris, hosted by the School and Université PSL
- Target audience: doctoral candidates from EELISA member institutions
- Application deadline: 18 September 2026
Interested doctoral candidates are invited to submit their applications through the EELISA Digital Campus.