A stay abroad?

Nowadays, it’s possible to spend time abroad as part of your doctorate, particularly thanks to an SNSF grant.

As well as the personal benefits offered by this experience, it’s also an advantage from a professional point of view. If you are planning to pursue an academic career, mobility is very favourably looked upon. Furthermore, it’s an excellent way of establishing contacts on an international level and thus extending your scientific network. A stay abroad is also an asset in a CV when applying for a position on the non-academic job market.

To derive maximum benefit from this stay, you should however select your destination carefully. It’s therefore a good idea to seek information beforehand from your thesis supervisor as well as other professors, senior lecturers and lecturers who can also act as intermediaries and facilitate your integration into the new team.

To avoid any unpleasant surprises, you should also check your health and accident insurance cover, especially for stays in the United States or Japan.

Moreover, SNSF grants are not salaries. The amounts allocated do not include social security contributions (pension, disability, loss of earnings, unemployment benefit, etc.). On the other hand, they are taxable. These special features have important repercussions on your return, particularly regarding taxation and entitlement to unemployment benefit. It’s therefore essential to make enquiries before your departure.