Riga Technical University (RTU) has announced the third call for applications under the project “RTU Doctoral Grants for Supporting Research Excellence in Smart Specialisation Fields” (project No. 1.1.1.8/1/24/I/007).
This programme is a significant support instrument for doctoral students in Latvia, aiming to strengthen research capacity and promote the development of high-level scientific work in the country’s RIS3 priority fields.

Key Conditions

Applications are open to all doctoral students at any stage of their studies, except those who have already received similar support (e.g., ANM grants) without fulfilling their obligations.

The main purpose of the grant is to contribute to the implementation of the Latvian Research and Innovation Smart Specialisation Strategy (RIS3). Supported research fields include:

  • knowledge-based bioeconomy,
  • biomedicine and medical technologies,
  • pharmacy,
  • photonics and smart materials,
  • technologies and engineering systems,
  • smart energy and mobility,
  • information and communication technologies.

Funding

Doctoral students can receive up to EUR 1,800 per month, consisting of:

  • EUR 1,300 – remuneration for employment (50% workload, including employer’s tax contributions),
  • EUR 500 – allocated for research-related costs such as materials, publications, conferences, and mobility.

The grant is awarded for a period of 12 to 48 months. During this time, the doctoral student must ensure at least 30% additional employment in a research project at RTU or a partner institution.

Application Procedure

  • Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 3 October 2025, 17:00 (EET) via email to [email protected].
  • Required documents: Completed application form and compliance with the competition regulation.
  • Project duration: Projects must be completed by the end of 2025, and no later than 1 February 2026.

Competition Regulation: download PDF
Application Form: download file

How HR Line EU Can Help

At HR Line EU, we provide full-cycle support to doctoral students who wish to apply for this grant:

  • guidance on completing the application,
  • assistance with preparing and structuring required documents,
  • support in designing research plans and scientific publications,
  • facilitation of international cooperation and mobility planning.

Our mission is to simplify the application process and increase your chances of successfully receiving funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you also support with scientific publications?
Yes. We assist in preparing scientific papers for publication in international journals (Scopus, Web of Science) and advise on choosing the most suitable outlets.

2. How much does support with the application cost?
Our consultation and application preparation services start from EUR 150. The exact cost depends on the scope of work required.

3. Why should I seek external support if I can apply on my own?
Of course, self-application is possible. However, our experience shows that professional support significantly increases the chances of success. We help avoid formal errors and ensure that your research topic is effectively aligned with RIS3 priorities.

For individual consultations or support with preparing your application, contact us: [email protected]