Initiatives for and by PhD researchers

VABAP (Association for Assistant and Non-statutory Academic Personnel)

The Association of Assistant and Supernumerary Academic Staff (VABAP) is the representative body of the Assistant Academic Staff (AAP) and the Supernumerary Academic Staff (BAP) at the University of Antwerp. Our delegates represent and defend our (your!) interests in many of the councils and boards at our university. Detailed information can be found on Pintra.

Events organised by PhD researchers

In various faculties and departments, PhD researchers organise scientific activities such as conferences and lunch seminars. Those initiatives are organised and coordinated entirely by the PhD students themselves. The Antwerp Doctoral School provides financial support (OJO call). Some initiatives are listed below. This is not a complete list so in case you know of other initiatives that aren't mentioned yet, please let us know via DoctoralSchool@uantwerp.be.

WDW (working group for Science PhD students)

The working group for Science PhD students, or WDW (Werkgroep Doctorandi Wetenschappen), promotes contact between PhD researchers in Science, Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences and their representatives at the university's various levels. The aim of this working group is to improve communication and defend PhD candidates' interests. In recent years, WDW has influenced changes in the doctoral programme and various decisions made by the academic authorities which benefit PhD students.

WDW consists of representatives from the faculties of Science and Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences who are elected every two years. Recently the association faculties of Design Sciences and Nautical Sciences were also given representation. The representatives are invited to the board meetings to ensure an effective flow of information.

WDW representatives are always available to discuss problems and suggestions from PhD candidates with regard to PhDs and the doctoral study programme. Send an email to wdw@uantwerpen.be.