The HGK Basel and the University of Arts Linz invite applications for the practice-based PhD programme Make/Sense, supporting artistic research projects exploring media, society, and critical practice.
The Basel Academy of Art and Design FHNW, in collaboration with the University of Arts Linz, invites applications to the three-year practice-based PhD programme Make/Sense. Rooted in infrastructural critique, situated artistic research, and critical media approaches, Make/Sense supports doctoral projects that engage with practice-based forms of reading and writing and explore what research can be, whom it serves, and how it may contribute to new publics and social imaginaries.
The PhD is carried out in partnership between Basel and Linz and hosted by the Critical Media Lab at the Institute Experimental Design and Media Culture in Basel. Supervision is provided jointly by faculty from both institutions. The PhD combines individualized mentoring with monthly colloquia and an annual assembly. Public events and collaborations with external partners complement the programme.
Applications are welcome from artists, curators, publishers, designers, and cultural organisers holding an MA degree (120 ECTS) or an equivalent qualification. The application consists of two rounds:
1st Round (Pre-Proposals):
Deadline September 27, 2026
Notification of results: Mid-November2026
2nd Round (Full Proposal)
Deadline: December 18, 2026
Interviews: Mid-January 2027 (Week 2/3)
Notification of Results: End of January 2027
Apply here:
Please note that doctoral positions in the programme are not funded. Study fees are set by the University of Linz. Current fees are listed here. There are no additional fees at FHNW
