Education Research Current About VU Amsterdam NL
Bachelor's programmes Master's programmes VU for Professionals
Exchange programme VU Amsterdam Summer School Honours Programme Dutch language courses (NT2) Semester in Amsterdam
PhD at VU Amsterdam Featured research Prizes and distinctions
Interdisciplinary research institutes Scientists of VU Amsterdam Research Impact Support Portal Create impact with your research
News Events calendar Moving towards a healthier future
VU UPDATE: Situation in Israel and the Palestinian regions Culture at VU Amsterdam
Practical matters Mission, core values and vision Entrepreneurship on VU Campus
Governance of VU Amsterdam Valorisation and impact Partnering with VU Amsterdam VU Alumni Community Take a look at our vacancies!
Sorry! De informatie die je zoekt, is enkel beschikbaar in het Engels.
This programme is saved in My Study Choice.
Something went wrong with processing the request.
Something went wrong with processing the request.
Become a PhD Candidate in Anthropology at VU Amsterdam

The Anthropology Department at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam offers an inspiring and supportive environment for doctoral research. We welcome PhD candidates who develop innovative, socially engaged research that contributes to both academic debates and societal challenges

As a PhD candidate, you'll join a department that values theoretical depth, methodological creativity, and collaborative research practices. As a PhD candidate you have the opportunity to work with our Ethnographic Impact Lab, collaborating with NGOs, policymakers, and community partners to translate ethnographic insights into societal impact.

Become a PhD candidate

Take the next step

For official information about admission requirements, fees, and the application process, visit the VU Graduate School. For specifics about what the department requires you may contact Medha Guru.

Pathways into our PhD Programme

There are several pathways to begin your PhD in Anthropology at VU Amsterdam: 

  • Funded PhD positions - You apply for a funded PhD position at VU Amsterdam and join the department as an employee. 
  • External PhD candidates - If you've secured external funding (scholarships, research grants, or funding from your home institution), we welcome applications to join our doctoral program. 
  • Developing a project proposal - Have a research idea but haven't secured funding yet? Contact our staff to explore supervision possibilities. We can guide you toward relevant funding opportunities and support your grant applications. 

What does the PhD journey look like?

A PhD in Anthropology at VU typically takes four years (for funded positions) and combines independent research with collaborative learning. You'll conduct extended ethnographic fieldwork, engage with theoretical debates, present at conferences, and write a dissertation. Many candidates also gain teaching experience, collaborate on impact projects through the Ethnographic Impact Lab, and build networks with researchers and practitioners beyond academia.

Quick links

Homepage VU Amsterdam Culture at VU Amsterdam University Library Dashboard

Study

Academic calendar Study Guide Timetable Canvas

Featured

Donate to the VU Fund VU Magazine Ad Valvas Digital accessibility

About VU Amsterdam

Contact with VU Amsterdam Take a look at our vacancies! Faculties VU Amsterdam Divisions VU Amsterdam Privacy Disclaimer Safety Web Colophon Cookie settings Web Archive

Copyright © VU