Stockholm PhD Academy

To support international doctoral students find their way in the Swedish labour market

Stockholm attracts many international PhD students every year – but too many leave Sweden after graduation. This is a loss for both the individual and society. Now we are investing to change that.

With support from Tillväxtverket – The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth, we are launching the Stockholm PhD Academy pilot project in autumn 2025 – a new programme to help international doctoral students find their way in the Swedish labour market. It is an important national recognition and a valuable complement to our established SDCN Academy for accompanying partners and Stockholm Student Academy for international masters students.

A doctoral programme costs around SEK 5 million – yet 6 out of 10 international PhD students leave Sweden within three years. At the same time, many want to stay, and over 60% are open to a career outside academia. This project gives them the tools they need to succeed.

Stockholm PhD Academy programme

Autumn 2025:

An introductory series of lectures to a large number of international PhD students – to inspire, guide and show the way to working life in Sweden. From culture to careers – this is your Swedish starting point!

What’s in it for you?

Gain insights into Swedish society to help you thrive during and after your PhD.
Build a network of fellow international researchers.
Meet PhD students from across Stockholm’s universities and academic disciplines.
Explore your career options in Sweden.
Lay the foundation for your integration and future success.

Over three inspiring lectures, you’ll get practical insights into everything from cultural mindset to career navigation – all designed to help you feel more at home here.

You’ll discover Stockholm’s diverse industries, innovation landscape, and vibrant start-up scene. Along the way, gain insight into Swedish history, values, and social norms to better understand your new workplace culture. The program also offers tools and guidance to help you start networking early and build skills valued in Sweden’s job market.

Spring 2026:

An exclusive career programme for 50 PhD students from different universities in Stockholm. The programme offers:

Personalised coaching and career support
Networking with companies and entrepreneurs
Workshops and company visits related to relevant industries
Holistic and personalised support

Together with the investment in accompanying partners, we strengthen Stockholm’s attractiveness and take advantage of the international expertise that already exists here.

From Tillväxtverkets motivation for decision:
‘The project is expected to make a positive contribution to Sweden’s ability to attract, establish and retain sought-after international expertise. This is both through the activities to be implemented [in the pilot] and through expected long-term effects.’