Welcome to ORPHEUS
Quality in Doctoral Education
Welcome to ORPHEUS
Mission Statement
The Organisation for PhD Education in Biomedicine and Health Sciences in the European System, or ORPHEUS, was founded in 2004. ORPHEUS aims to safeguard the PhD as a research degree by supporting graduate schools, faculties and departments, research students and their supervisors, through quality assurance mechanisms, advocation of best practices, professional development and training.
Core Activities
Explore how ORPHEUS supports PhD education through strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts.
Quality Assurance
We implement robust quality assurance processes to maintain high academic supervision standards across PhD programs.
Best Practices
ORPHEUS advocates for the adoption of best practices in doctoral education to enhance learning outcomes.
Graduate Support
We provide comprehensive support to graduates, driving their professional growth and research capabilities.
Collaborative Networks
Building strong partnerships with institutions to drive innovation and excellence in PhD education.
Sustainable Networks Through Interdisciplinary Partnerships - The Key to Quality Enhancement in Doctoral Education
26 - 28 May, 2026
Are you involved in shaping the future of PhD education in biomedicine and health sciences, or are you a current PhD candidate?
If so, join over 130 universities from across Europe and beyond at the ORPHEUS 2026 Conference in Budapest this coming May.
tools for improving doctoral training
Global Network of Excellence
Join a global network of over 140 institutions committed to advancing excellence in PhD education. By connecting with ORPHEUS, your organisation becomes part of a collaborative community shaping the future of doctoral training through shared values, best practices, and continuous improvement.
Be part of something bigger. Join today and connect with leaders in doctoral education worldwide.
ORPHEUS Best Practices for PhD Training
Based on the ORPHEUS – AMSE – WFME standards for PhD Education in Biomedicine and Health Sciences in Europe.
First published in 2016 with the latest revision in 2024, our free Best Practices in PhD Training ebook covers recommendations in:
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- Research Environment
- Outcomes
- Admission Policy and Criteria
- PhD Training Programme
- Supervision
- PhD Thesis
- Assessment
- Graduate School Structure
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Membership Benefits
Why Join ORPHEUS?
Professional Network
Connect with a diverse community of professionals dedicated to advancing PhD education in Biomedicine and Health Sciences.
Access to Resources
Gain access to a wealth of resources, from research publications, best practice guidelines and educational materials.
Annual Conferences
Participate in our annual conferences to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in PhD education.
Advocacy & Guidance
Benefit from our advocacy efforts and expert guidance to enhance your professional journey and academic endeavors.
Collaborative Opportunities
Engage in collaborative projects and initiatives that foster innovation and excellence in PhD education supervision.
Career Development
Access career development programs designed to support your growth and success in the field of Biomedicine and Health Sciences.