Doctoral Program

The program offers a unique opportunity to enhance the research potential of our Center and replenish its human resources while extending its intellectual influence and consolidating its institutional base. The development and diversification of this program are therefore matters of considerable importance.

The CSO welcomes doctoral candidates for a period of four years, which is approximately the length of time it takes to complete a Ph.D. thesis. Each young scholar is considered a full member of our research team and is provided with an office as well as library, documentation and Internet facilities. Financial assistance is provided from a variety of sources including the Ministry of Research, the CNRS and private firms.

Although the main activity of the candidates is of course work related to their dissertation projects, the CSO recognizes the often-solitary nature of such work. In addition to providing support, we aim to train talented students and help them not only to complete their doctoral studies but also to develop strong professional qualifications for rapid entry into the labor market. To serve these objectives the CSO has initiated a series of on-going activities. All students are required to attend the weekly doctoral seminar, which attracts researchers both from inside and outside the CSO and is intended to support dissertation research. Discussions are organized around broad themes of interest to all the participants along with frequent sessions for doctoral students to present their work for comment and debate. Students are encouraged to accept teaching assignments to hone their professional skills as well as participate in organizational analysis projects designed to provide a variety of experience of potential interest to prospective employers. The CSO is deeply committed to the professional future of its doctoral candidates. For some this means careers in research and teaching while others may wish to pursue careers outside academia.

Since 1994, 19 theses have been successfully completed. There are presently 27 doctoral candidates working at the CSO.