Application Deadline: June 22, 2026
LOCATION: Multiple Regions
LaSoMa provides comprehensive financial support for PhD candidates pursuing research in laser manufacturing for solar systems components with a focus on zero-defect, zero-waste production and climate change mitigation. Mobility duration ranges from 6 to 36 months. Funded by the European Commission.
ELIGIBILITY:
To be eligible for a LaSoMa scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
| Nationality & Residence | Must be national and resident of an African country at time of application |
| Target Group | Target Group 1: Graduate of one of the LaSoMa participating HEIs, OR Target Group 2: Graduate from another African HEI not participating as a beneficiary |
| PhD Entry | Recognised Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Engineering or related field |
| Language | Proficiency in English (language of instruction) |
| Previous Scholarship | Must not have previously received scholarship under any Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme 2022-2027 project |
| No Double-Dipping | Must commit not to benefit from another EU-funded scholarship scheme (e.g., Erasmus+, Erasmus Mundus) during LaSoMa mobility period |
| Research Alignment | Research interests must align with LaSoMa focus areas (laser manufacturing, solar systems, climate change) |
| Inclusion Goals | Project targets: 30% women, 10% special needs. Applicants from under-represented groups strongly encouraged |
Scholarship holders undertake research in one or more of the following LaSoMa priority areas:
Laser Manufacturing Technologies
Laser cutting, welding, cladding, additive manufacturing for solar panels and batteries
Digital Twins & Lifecycle Modelling
Digital twin frameworks, lifecycle sustainability modelling, scanning optics integration
AI/ML for Zero-Defect Manufacturing
Machine learning, big data science, AI-driven quality control and process optimisation
Solar Materials & Climate Mitigation
Photovoltaic materials, battery components, sustainable production, climate change mitigation
BENEFIT:
100% tuition fees covered by European Commission funding
Monthly stipend for living expenses throughout the programme
Medical insurance coverage
Research consumables and equipment access at partner universities
Travel support for preparatory school, research visits, and conferences
Access to industry partners (BStars, DWA) and laser manufacturing facilities
LaSoMa Preparatory Graduate School included soft skills and technical training.
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