FAQs

General information

• What are the main components of the PhD programme?
  The programme includes the completion of a dissertation related to our aims. See: research and qualification programme.

• What language is the programme taught in?
  The primary language of instruction and communication is English. The exposé must be submitted in English. The interviews will also be held in English. An official language certificate is not required.

• What are the timelines for each cohort?
  The first cohort started in April 2022 and will conclude in March 2025. The second cohort will begin in April 2025 and end in March 2028.

• After completing the RTG, what degree will I have?
  The title of your degree depends on the doctoral degree regulations of the three participating universities: HCU, UHH, TU.

• What is the difference between fully-funded PhD positions and associated PhD positions?

  • Fully-funded PhD positions:

    • These positions are full-time (100%) and are funded for three years (Salary Level 13 TV-L).

    • Fully-funded candidates are expected to dedicate their full working hours to their research and participate actively in all RTG events and activities.

    • They receive close supervision and mentorship from the team of supervisors.
      
      

  • Associated PhD positions:

    • Associated PhD candidates do not receive a salary from the RTG, as they are not formally employed.

    • They are expected to participate in the group’s events, workshops, and academic activities, and receive close supervision and mentorship from the team of supervisors.

    • It is highly encouraged for associated PhD candidates to have secured external funding. You can also apply for affiliation with the RTG if you have already started your research project. It should however be in an early stage.

Admission and application

• What are the criteria for applying for a PhD position?
  Applicants must have an above-average master’s degree or equivalent in one of the involved disciplines, a very good command of English equivalent to C1, a strong interest in interdisciplinary exchange, and willingness to collaborate with others, combined with high-level communication skills.
  Depending on your discipline, the following skills and qualifications are desirable: Experience in the fields of interdisciplinary urban and spatial research, professional experience related to the built environment, and experience in empirical social science research.

• How can I apply for a PhD position? What is the application deadline?
  Applications can be submitted via email. The email addresses will be published during the application period. Please see Application: PhD positions or Application: Associated members. For the application deadlines, please refer to Deadlines and events.

• What documents are required for the application?
  Please see Application: PhD positions or Application: Associated members, as relevant.

Funding and financial aid

• Is there an application fee?
  No, there is no application fee. Travel costs for the interviews will not be reimbursed.

• Is funding available for PhD students?

  Yes, the RTG offers funding for 12 doctoral positions – eight at HCU, three at UHH, and one at TUHH – starting 1 April 2025 (Salary Level 13 TV-L).

Programme structure and requirements

• How much time will I spend in the programme?
  For the fully-funded PhD positions: Full-time study (around 39 hours per week) for research and RTG programme activities. Presence in Hamburg is required.

• What kind of support will I receive during my PhD?
  Students receive support from their supervisors, the coordinator, and the RTG office, as well as various university resources, including libraries and workshops.

• Are there any mandatory courses or seminars?
  Yes, participating in lectures, colloquia, and interdisciplinary workshops is mandatory. Additionally, workshops and skill-building courses are offered, which can be attended based on individual interests. The compulsory courses you have to attend are based on your doctoral regulations: HCU, UHH, TU.

• What is the process for selecting a dissertation topic?
  Your application should include a detailed proposal for a PhD project that you would like to pursue and that is related to the research programme of the RTG (5 pages, excluding references, plus a half-page abstract, written in English). Please add the names of your preferred supervisor(s) to your application. This will not have an effect on your application. The dissertation topic will be further developed and refined in collaboration with the supervisors and within the research tracks.

International students

• Are international students eligible to apply?
  Yes, we encourage applications from international students.

• Do you provide support for obtaining visas?
  Yes, we provide assistance for international students to obtain the necessary visas and permits for study. Please contact Lea Mork in case you have any questions.

• Is there housing available for PhD students?
  No, the universities do not provide housing options.

Contact information

• Who can I contact for more information?
  For general questions please contact Lea Mork. For further information regarding the positions, please contact Prof. Dr. Monika Grubbauer, or the other supervisors of the RTG.