EIT Label for PhDs
Our offer
At the end of the GFVP programme (completion of a SPOC on ‘An Introduction to Food Systems: Scientific, Technical and Socioeconomic Principles to Facilitate the Creation of Food Value Networks’, Pathways to Impact and Seedbed Education), the Label Fellows receive the notable EIT label certificate, as the international recognition of their high education quality achievement. The EIT label certificate is recognised inside the student PhD diploma supplement of their host University.
In addition to these components, Label participants are required to complete a 2-3 month internship in industry. This experience allows them to gain firsthand insights into the challenges faced by the industry, whilst acquiring practical professional experience. It should be emphasised that throughout their Label journey, participants receive valuable mentoring from both industry and academic partners.
“This major achievement demonstrated the commitment of EIT Food Education and Partner Network to develop and implement highly innovative, relevant programmes to nurture top talent that will drive positive impact throughout the food system.” Maarten van der Kamp, director of EIT Food Education
Target group
PhD students from across Europe with an internship as part of the host organisation doctoral programme.
Key Outcomes
The ultimate outcome of the Label programme is the creation of a highly talented pool of trained individuals equipped with underpinning skills to respond to societal challenges and act as changemakers in the European agrifood sector.
GOOD PRACTICES
Knowledge and Skills: Enhancing PhDs personal and professional growth, as entrepreneurs and thought leaders through a well-designed curriculum, tools and hands-on activities based on the EIT Food’s Competency Framework. Providing the underpinning skills needed to drive innovation or navigating the challenges of building/scaling a startup in the food sector.
Network and Collaboration: Connecting with a diverse community of fellow PhDs, startup founders, mentors, industry experts, corporates, and investors from the EIT Food network that offers opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing, partnerships, and potential investment.
Market Validation: Support in validating business ideas, market potential, and customer needs through customer conversations and feedback, which helps refine their product or service and increases the chances of success in the market.
Funding Opportunities: Source of available funding routes and investment in Europe. Moreover, equipping participants with the necessary competences i.e. effective communication and negotiation skills with investors to maximise their chances of success to acquire funds.
Support and Guidance: Dedicated support from business coaches, experts and other industry professionals, who provide personalised guidance, mentoring, and expertise to help participants overcome obstacles and make informed decisions.