Through these mobility opportunities, Donderians can work directly with colleagues at WIN – and vice versa – creating space for joint projects, shared expertise, and fresh perspectives across all disciplines and career stages. Researchers from PhD candidates to professors are encouraged to take part, as the scheme enables valuable short-term visits to deepen existing collaborations or explore new ones. Also MSc students can apply to fund two to three months of their research internship.
Personal development to broaden your perspective
Lucas Billen has fond memories from his visit to Western University in 2022: “I had a fantastic time at Western University. The amazing Canadian hospitality and culture, the historical campus and the student-friendly city made the time fly by. Professionally, I expanded my professional network and learned a lot about their scientific culture. But perhaps more importantly, this experience really increased my confidence and I made some great friends. I would highly recommend Donderians to apply for this fund, it's a fantastic opportunity to spend some time abroad. And if you can make some free time while there, don't miss out on the incredible Canadian nature.
The Donders Institute PhD and postdoc coordinators, Annemiek and Lisa, highly recommend applying, as this is an excellent opportunity to visit Western University for up to two weeks, to learn new techniques, initiate collaborations, exchange ideas, and expand your professional network. This can be especially beneficial for early career researchers. The visit may also be combined with attendance at a conference elsewhere in North America, either before or after your stay at Western (and vice versa for Western University staff coming to Europe).
Xiang Li, a PhD candidate from Western University visited the Donders Institute in 2024 and noted “During the seminar, I had several engaging discussions with Radboud students on topics such as the ultimate loss function of artificial intelligence. We exchanged perspectives and learned a great deal from one another.” He also noted “Exchange programmes offer a wonderful opportunity to understand different cultures and ways of thinking. During an exchange programme, you meet many new people, form friendships, exchange ideas, encounter new things and experiences, and absorb a wealth of new information. This new information and these experiences will broaden your perspective, allowing you to see issues from a more comprehensive viewpoint. Therefore, exchange programs are excellent opportunities for everyone.”
Interested to visit? Apply now before 20 January!
Please know that, if you are interested, it is best to apply as soon as possible, as there is still funding available in the current call for visits until summer 2027. The current call is open for applications until 19 January 2026. For eligibility criteria and application instructions for Donderians, please visit Donders Mobility Exchange Programmes.