If you are an aspiring researcher looking to build a global career in health science, data science, or artificial intelligence, the HER-CARE Doctoral Network 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity. This prestigious programme, funded under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), is designed to train the next generation of researchers through fully funded doctoral positions across Europe.
HER-CARE is focused on advancing research in breast cancer, particularly in prevention, risk prediction, and clinical management. The programme combines cutting-edge science with international collaboration, giving selected candidates access to world-class research environments and industry exposure.
What is the HER-CARE Doctoral Network?
The HER-CARE initiative is a highly competitive doctoral training programme that brings together leading universities, research institutions, and industry partners worldwide.
It is part of the MSCA Doctoral Network (MSCA-DN), a European Commission-funded initiative that aims to:
- Train highly skilled doctoral researchers
- Promote international mobility
- Strengthen collaboration between academia and industry
- Address global scientific and societal challenges
Through this programme, selected candidates will work on innovative breast cancer research projects while pursuing their PhD in a structured and supportive environment.
Why You Should Join HER-CARE
Joining the HER-CARE network offers far more than just a PhD. It is a complete career development experience.
Key Benefits
- World-Class Training
- Access to advanced scientific and technical training
- Development of transferable skills such as leadership and communication
- International Collaboration
- Work with top researchers across Europe and beyond
- Engage with both academic and industry experts
- Career Development
- Gain multidisciplinary research experience
- Participate in mentoring and networking events
- Opportunities to organize scientific events
- Impactful Research
- Contribute to real-world solutions in breast cancer prevention
- Help develop personalized treatment and risk prediction strategies
Available Doctoral Positions (2026 Intake)
HER-CARE offers multiple doctoral projects (DC positions) across Europe. Below are some of the currently open opportunities:
Open Positions with Deadlines
- DC1 – Improving classification of pathogenetic variants
- Location: Nicosia, Cyprus
- Deadline: May 11, 2026 (11:00 CET)
- DC4 – Impact of hormone replacement therapy in BRCA1/2 carriers
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Deadline: April 26, 2026
- DC6 – Novel risk factors and prediction models for early onset cancer
- Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
- Deadline: April 30, 2026
- DC14 – AI models linking protein signatures to immune changes
- Location: Cambridge, UK
- Deadline: April 24, 2026
- DC15 – Multi-modal models for breast cancer treatment prediction
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Deadline: April 26, 2026
Other Opportunities
- Several positions are open on a rolling basis or already closed
- Projects span countries including France, Sweden, Spain, Denmark, and the Netherlands
Each role focuses on different areas such as:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Bioinformatics and Data Science
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Genetics and Biomedical Sciences
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the HER-CARE doctoral positions, candidates must meet the following conditions:
Core Requirements
- Must not hold a PhD at the time of recruitment
- Must not have lived or worked in the host country for more than 12 months in the last 36 months
- Must be available for full-time commitment
- Must demonstrate strong English proficiency
These rules are standard for all MSCA Doctoral Network programmes.
Required Skills and Expertise
Depending on the project, applicants may need:
- Bioinformatics and data science skills
- Knowledge in epidemiology or statistics
- Experience in AI or machine learning
- Background in genetics or biomedical sciences
Some roles may also require:
- Research publication experience
- Laboratory or clinical research exposure
Application Process
To APPLY, candidates must follow the instructions for each specific doctoral position.
Typical Application Requirements
- A well-written motivation letter
- A detailed CV (including publications, if any)
- Contact details of at least two referees
Applicants are encouraged to carefully tailor their application to the specific project they are applying for.
Important Deadlines
Deadlines vary by position, but key dates include:
- April 24, 2026
- April 26, 2026
- April 30, 2026
- May 11, 2026
Candidates are strongly advised to APPLY early, as some positions may close quickly or be filled on a rolling basis.
Why This Opportunity Matters
The HER-CARE Doctoral Network is not just about earning a PhD — it’s about becoming part of a global movement to improve healthcare outcomes.
Participants will:
- Work on life-saving research
- Gain international exposure
- Build long-term careers in academia or industry
This is one of the most prestigious and impactful doctoral opportunities available in Europe today.
