PhD researchers working on cybersecurity-related topics often find themselves navigating disciplinary boundaries, limited peer networks, and few opportunities to engage with the wider policy and practitioner communities that shape the field.
The European Cybersecurity PhD Accelerator by Virtual Routes aims to address this challenge. Organised by Virtual Routes as part of the Cybersecurity Seminars program, the initiative brings together a cohort of outstanding PhD researchers working on cybersecurity-related topics from across Europe and beyond.
The program is built around two objectives: helping early-career researchers strengthen their professional skills and supporting them in building lasting international networks.
The first component consists of a series of virtual sessions focused on professional development and research communication. Participants will receive guidance on publishing in leading academic journals, navigating careers, and translating specialised research into accessible public writing.
The second component is an in-person retreat in Maastricht, the Netherlands, on 12-13 November 2026. The retreat is designed to provide participants with an opportunity to exchange ideas and develop future collaborations with peers working on cybersecurity-related topics.
The first day will focus on research and methods, featuring sessions on major developments in cybersecurity policy and research, practical applications of large language models in cybersecurity research, and opportunities for participants to present and discuss their ongoing work. On the second day, senior policy experts will join the cohort to discuss emerging policy challenges and opportunities for greater engagement between academic research and policymaking in cybersecurity.
Virtual Routes will cover two nights of accommodation (11-13 November 2026) and all program-related expenses during the retreat, including meals and domestic travel within the Netherlands. Participants are asked to cover their own international travel to the Netherlands.
Following an initial round of invitations, we have already selected 22 PhD researchers specialising in cybersecurity-related topics. We are pleased to announce that a limited number of additional places is now available through an open call for applications.
Details on how to apply can be found here.
