PhD at the Institut Pasteur
Your PhD at the heart of research
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360+
PhD candidates
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100
new admissions each year
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50+
nationalities
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150+
research units
Why pursue your PhD at the Institut Pasteur?
At the Institut Pasteur, you will receive research training through research in a multidisciplinary environment at the heart of Paris, connected to a global scientific network.
As a PhD candidate, you will benefit from a world-class scientific environment featuring:
- State-of-the-art technology platforms
- International collaborations
- A highly interdisciplinary research culture
- Daily interactions with internationally recognized experts
You will also benefit from:
- Internationally recognized scientific supervision
- A comprehensive portfolio of complementary training opportunities, including in-person courses, online learning, MOOCs, technical workshops, and French language courses
- Career development and entrepreneurship support
- A vibrant scientific environment with seminars, symposia, and international conferences
Pursuing a PhD at the Institut Pasteur means contributing to major advances in global health.
PhD pathways: Which program is right for you?
The Institut Pasteur offers several pathways to a PhD, depending on your academic background and career goals.
Flagship Program: Pasteur–Paris University (PPU)
The Pasteur–Paris University (PPU) program is the Institut Pasteur's flagship international doctoral program. Open to students holding a Master's degree in science or medicine, it offers:
- Fully funded PhD support for three years
- Structured academic and scientific supervision
- Advanced scientific and professional training
- A highly international environment
The PPU also includes several specialized tracks tailored to different career paths (including MD–PhD, Translational Research, Technological Innovation, Emerging Infectious Diseases and more)
MD–PhD Program
Designed for medical students and healthcare professionals, the MD–PhD Program combines fundamental research, translational research, and clinical training.
Participants benefit from:
- Dual scientific and clinical mentorship
- Immersion in a unique research and clinical environment
- National and international collaboration opportunities
Doctoral School Competitive Admissions
You may obtain French government-funded doctoral fellowships through the doctoral schools affiliated with the Institut Pasteur's partner universities, including Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Université Paris-Saclay, and PSL University.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact their future host research unit to prepare for the annual doctoral school selection process.
Funded PhD Projects
Join a research team that has already secured doctoral funding through national agencies, the European Union, industry, or other funding bodies.
Industry-Sponsored PhDs (CIFRE)
Complete your PhD in partnership with a company through the French CIFRE doctoral funding program, supported by the ANRT.
For questions related to industrial partnerships, particularly CIFRE agreements, please contact the Department for Research Applications and Industrial Relations (DARRI) at: darri@pasteur.fr
Graduate Schools
Join a structured doctoral pathway with dedicated funding opportunities in strategic research areas, including emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, genetics, and more.
Continuing Education
Already hold a Master's degree (or equivalent)? You may also enroll in a PhD through the continuing education pathway.
Doctoral Schools & Partner Universities
Dedicated support throughout your PhD
Doctoral Student Office
Throughout your doctoral journey, the Doctoral Student Office supports you academically, administratively, and personally to help you make the most of your experience at the Institut Pasteur.
The office is organized into four dedicated units:
- Academic Support Office
- International Doctoral Programs Office
- Tutoring Office
- Student Life Office
The Doctoral Student Office provides:
- A dedicated Orientation Day
- Administrative and academic support throughout your PhD
- Personalized tutoring during your doctoral training
- Complementary scientific and professional development opportunities
- Assistance with housing
- Integration into campus life and the doctoral community
Doctoral Life
Beyond your research project, you will become part of a vibrant international community that encourages collaboration, engagement, and personal development.
Discover the many resources and opportunities available throughout your PhD:
- Training Opportunities
Expand your expertise through complementary training in areas such as artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and open science.
- Housing
Access accommodation solutions through the Institut Pasteur's dedicated housing partners.
- Student Life
Join the StaPa student association and take part in sports, cultural, and community activities on campus.
- Graduation Ceremony
Celebrate your achievements during the annual ceremony honoring the Institut Pasteur's newest PhD graduates.
- Useful Resources
Find practical information and essential resources to support your PhD and your relocation to Paris.
PhD Candidates Share Their Experience
Through these videos, discover the richness and diversity of doctoral life at the Institut Pasteur.
This selection highlights memorable moments from the PhD community, including thesis presentations, community events, graduation ceremonies, alumni stories, and creative outreach and science communication projects led by PhD candidates.
Together, these perspectives showcase the research, experiences, and commitments that shape doctoral life at the Institut Pasteur.
Discover all videos
Join the Institut Pasteur
By combining cutting-edge research, academic excellence, and personalized support, the Institut Pasteur prepares the next generation of scientists and physician-scientists to address tomorrow's global health challenges.
Useful Resources
Practical information to support you throughout your PhD journey.
Contact Us
Whether you are considering a PhD at the Institut Pasteur or are already part of our doctoral community, the Doctoral Student Office is here to support you throughout your journey.
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Olivier Cassar
Head of the Doctoral Student Office
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Sheida Kashani
Administrative Assistant of the Academic Support Office
For questions related to mentoring, student life, or international doctoral programs, please contact:
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Cecilia Patitucci
PPU program Dean
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Marianne Lucas-Hourani
Tutoring Officer
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Stefaniia Ivashchenko
Student Life Officer
