2026 Edition

The CNRS-Université de Sherbrooke Joint Ph.D. Program is a joint call for proposals between the CNRS and the Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS) that aligns with the objectives of the International Research Center (IRC) “Innovations for a Sustainable Planet,” launched by the two institutions in April 2024.

Each joint project selected under this call will receive funding for two doctoral fellowships over three years: one funded by the CNRS for the doctoral student from the CNRS unit, and another funded by UdeS for the doctoral student from UdeS. The selected projects will also receive funding for mobility between France and UdeS.

The 2026 call for proposals aims to catalyze scientific and technological innovations centered on the concept of a “sustainable planet.” Particular attention will be given to environmental issues, energy efficiency, and low-carbon solutions. Projects must demonstrate how they integrate these dimensions from the outset.

This year, the call focuses on four specific themes:

• Low-carbon and frugal technologies and innovations
• Solutions for decarbonization and energy efficiency
• Environmental observation and analysis, and biodiversity conservation
• Sustainable development and responsible innovation. ​​

All projects must fall within the scope of at least two of the IRC’s four focus areas and demonstrate this in the proposal:

• Responsible innovation, transitions, and biodiversity
• Micro- and nanotechnologies
• Sustainable chemistry and circularity of materials—Responsible, low-carbon materials for
  sustainable construction
• Quantum sciences and technologies

Who can submit an application?

UdeS professors, as well as associate professors who are members of CNRS international research laboratories based at UdeS, in collaboration with researchers and faculty members (PU, MCF) affiliated with a CNRS-supervised laboratory (UMR, UPR).

Timeline

Submission deadline: November 2, 2025

Announcement of results: February 16, 2026