Université PSL opens applications for the PRISM doctoral programme on the environmental transition
Université PSL is opening applications for PRISM (PhD Research programme for International training in Sustainable soft Matter), an international doctoral programme dedicated to the environmental transition. Led by Université PSL and implemented by ESPCI Paris - PSL, the programme will recruit 30 excellent international PhD candidates in several PSL institutions and research units. The programme is supported by European funding through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions COFUND scheme, an important achievement for Université PSL and the teams involved.
Discover PRISM and apply
A dedicated website has been launched to present the programme, its research topics, the participating institutions and the application process: https://prism.psl.eu
The first call for applications is open from 1 September to 31 October 2026.
Fourteen PhD projects are available for the first cohort, with the PhD programme starting in March 2027.
The PhD offers are also available on different recruitment websites, including Euraxess.
A doctoral programme for the environmental transition
PRISM is dedicated to training a new generation of scientists and innovators capable of addressing tomorrow’s environmental challenges.
The programme develops an interdisciplinary approach combining physics, chemistry, biology and engineering, with a focus on sustainable soft matter research.
The research topics include:
• development of eco-friendly chemical processes;
• innovative concepts for renewable energy;
• building a circular economy;
• carbon capture, storage and valorisation.
PhD candidates may be hosted at Collège de France, Chimie ParisTech - PSL, École normale supérieure (ENS - PSL), École Supérieure de Physique et de Chimie Industrielles de la ville de Paris (ESPCI Paris - PSL), or Mines Paris - PSL.
The programme includes 180 hours of training over the three-year PhD programme, covering high-level scientific and technical skills, transferable and interdisciplinary skills, as well as innovation and entrepreneurship, scientific outreach and career development. Cross-sectoral mobility and experiences are also part of the programme.
A programme led by Université PSL and implemented by ESPCI Paris - PSL
PRISM is led by Université PSL, while ESPCI Paris ensures the implementation of the programme, in connection with the participating institutions and research units.
The programme is funded through the European Commission’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND scheme, under Grant Agreement GA-101261637.