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Fully Funded PhD Positions available at the International Max Planck Research School for Molecules of Life

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Fully Funded PhD Positions available at the International Max Planck Research School for Molecules of Life

International Max Planck Research School for Molecules of Life (IMPRS-ML) logoInternational Max Planck Research School for Molecules of Life (IMPRS-ML)
Munich, Germany
Deadline: 2026-10-07
Posted: Sep 25, 2026

NL Highlights

Engage in cutting-edge research within the broad areas of the molecules of life, spanning biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, cell biology, systems biology, and computational biology.
Receive first-class training and individual supervision from world-leading scientists in a dynamic and international research environment.
Benefit from a structured PhD program, full funding, and comprehensive career development support within a network of renowned institutions.

Details

Salary & Funding

Fully funded positions, no tuition fees, additional funding for scientific training.

Contact Info

IMPRS-ML Coordination Office: imprs-ml@biochem.mpg.de

Eligibility

Hold an MSc (or equivalent degree) with a strong background in biological sciences, biochemistry, biophysics, biotechnology or a related discipline.
Outstanding applicants with a 4-years BSc hons (or equivalent degree) may be eligible depending on the degree awarding country.

Next Steps

1
Check eligibility.
2
Register on the online application portal between 25 August and 07 October 2026.
3
Log in to the online application portal and invite two referees to submit a letter of recommendation.
4
Fill out the application form.

Opportunity Overview

OUR COMMUNITY

The International Max Planck Research School for Molecules of Life (IMPRS-ML) currently has an open call for fully funded PhD student positions in the areas of biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, cell biology, systems biology, and computational biology.

IMPRS-ML brings together two renowned Max Planck Institutes, the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry (MPIB) and the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence (MPI-BI) , as well as two leading partner universities, the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universit t M nchen (LMU) and Technische Universit t M nchen (TUM) , to deliver first-class training for the world s most promising young scientists. Our graduate school comprises more than 250 PhD students from 40+ countries as well as 38 distinguished and internationally recognised faculty members .

OUR OFFERING

  • A structured PhD program created by Munich-based Max Planck Institutes and Universities with English as the main language
  • Individual supervision and mentoring by world-leading scientists
  • Paid PhD positions and full funding for international and German students, with no tuition fees and additional funding for scientific training
  • An individual career development program , a wide range of methodology courses and soft skills workshops
  • Administrative support and guidance for national and international students
  • Excellent career opportunities in a thriving international research community

CURRICULUM AND TRAINING

IMPRS-ML offers high-level scientific training in a dynamic and international research environment with state-of-the-art facilities to doctoral researchers aiming for successful careers in science. Our comprehensive curriculum allows our students to tailor their learning to their interests, requiring them to earn 25-30 ECTS through various activities. This flexible approach enhances their learning opportunities.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Applicants should hold an MSc (or equivalent degree) with a strong background in biological sciences, biochemistry, biophysics, biotechnology or a related discipline.

Outstanding applicants with a 4-years BSc hons (or equivalent degree) may be eligible to apply depending on the degree awarding country.

HOW TO APPLY

Six steps to a successful submission:

  1. Check whether you are eligible to apply to our PhD program (more).
  2. Register on our online application portal between 25 August and 07 October 2026.
  3. Log in to the online application portal and invite two referees to submit a letter of recommendation.
  4. Fill out the application form.
  5. Upload all required documents (more).
  6. Submit your application no later than 07 October 2026 (17:00 CEST).

Please note:

  • As soon as a referee submits a letter of recommendation, you will receive a confirmation e-mail.
  • Applications can only be submitted after both letters of recommendation have been uploaded!
  • You will receive a confirmation e-mail once your application has been submitted successfully.
  • We can only accept complete applications submitted through our online application portal.
  • We are unable to accept applications sent to the Coordination Office via postal services or e-mail.
  • Should you have any questions whilst filling in your application, please visit our FAQs or send an e-mail to the IMPRS-ML Coordination Office .

Recruiting Faculty 2026

Who is recruiting in this year s application round?

Please have a look at the list of faculty members who are planning to recruit a student in this year s application round. In the application form, you will be asked to name up to five faculty members from the list that you find the most interesting.

Application timeline - 2026/2027

  • Online application portal opens on 25 August 2026 (09:00 CEST)
  • Closing date for submission of reference letters and your application is 07 October 2026 (17:00 CEST)
  • Online panel interviews will be held on 23-27 November 2026
  • Successful candidates will be invited to Munich for in-person interviews and matchmaking on 18-22 January 2027 (IMPRS-ML will reimburse travel expenses and accommodation costs)
  • Letters of acceptance sent out by early February 2027
  • Accepted candidates should start their PhD no later than 01 October 2027

*Applications can only be submitted with two reference letters.