The Hardening and Softening of Borders: Challenges for Europe and the World

LIMES is a doctoral programme for 13 talented PhD candidates in the domain of the humanities and social sciences, centred on the theme of ‘The Hardening and Softening of Borders: Europe in a Globalising World’. The dynamics of ‘softening’ and ‘hardening’ borders have become key issues in social and political transformations. Conducting research within this framework means working on the frontline of societal and scientific innovation, and is therefore particularly attractive for a new generation of interdisciplinary researchers. Moreover, Maastricht – located in the heart of the transnational Meuse- Rhine Euroregion – offers excellent opportunities to function as springboard for the mobility of ESRs. The programme ensures that its graduates are well-equipped for the job market, within and outside academia. A rich training programme and tailor-made secondments at one of the external partners are geared towards extending the employability of LIMES graduates far beyond traditional options.