FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Can I support more than one application as a principal supervisor?

It is only possible to support one application in each round. Even it more than one call is open. Also, each principal supervisor can only host one DARA Fellow at a time, so only one fellowship will be awarded per supervisor.

Can Assistant Professors be principal supervisors?

No. Only Associate Professors or higher (or equivalent ranks) can serve as principal supervisors. Assistant Professors are welcome to act as co-supervisors.

Do I need to be tenured to be a principal supervisor?

No. Both permanent and temporary staff are eligible, provided they hold an appropriate academic rank.

Are running costs included in the fellowship?

A DARA fellowship includes project supplement for the host institution. The supplement covers amongst other basic goods, materials and consumables. It is not possible to apply for additional running costs in DARA.

What should I include in my letter of support?

The letter should outline the supervisor’s role, available resources, and how the project aligns with the hosting environment. The letter should also comment on the feasibility and quality of the research. If relevant, mention co-supervisors or research group involvement. Please state the number of active PhD students currently supervised. Also, please describe any co-funding.
While there is no character limit, the letter should remain concise (maximum 2 pages).

Who holds the fellowship?

The PhD student is the formal grantholder of the fellowship and is responsible for implementing the project in collaboration with their supervisor. If the supervisor leaves the host institution, the fellow may either follow them to another research institute in Denmark or select a new principal supervisor.

Do you prefer more senior supervisors?

No. All supervisors will be assessed on the quality of supervision and institutional environment, not seniority or lab prestige.

what is dara

A vibrant community across the natural, technical, and medical sciences

A nationwide PhD academy providing structured and comprehensive support for rising talents in a plethora of scientific areas with a strong dedication to building a pulsating research community across Denmark with an international outlook.

A nationwide PhD academy providing structured and comprehensive support for rising talents in a plethora of scientific areas with a strong dedication to building a pulsating research community across Denmark with an international outlook.