Overview
PhD (Doctoral Degree)
This is a fully structured doctoral research program, typically lasting 3–4 years.
Description
PhD (Doctoral Degree)
This is a fully structured doctoral research program, typically lasting 3–4 years.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Hold (or expect to receive) an MSc degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
Exceptional BSc-only applicants with significant research experience may be considered
High proficiency in spoken and written English
Strong academic performance and prior research experience
Genuine interest in the research vision of at least one IMPRS research group
Motivation for interdisciplinary and collaborative research
Scientific curiosity, independence, and resilience in research
Additional Information
Degree Level
PhD (Doctoral Degree)
This is a fully structured doctoral research program, typically lasting 3–4 years.
Available Subjects
The IMPRS-CellDevoSys PhD program is open to candidates from diverse scientific backgrounds, including:
Biology
Cell and Developmental Biology
Biochemistry
Biophysics
Systems Biology
Physics
Mathematics
Computer Science
Engineering
Computational and Theoretical Biology
Most PhD projects are interdisciplinary, combining at least two of these fields.
Benefits
The program offers comprehensive academic, professional, and financial support, including:
Fully funded PhD positions with financial security for the full thesis duration
Competitive salary according to Max Planck and German funding standards
Access to world-class laboratories and core facilities
Dedicated mentoring through Thesis Advisory Committees (TACs)
Fully recognized PhD curriculum by TU Dresden
No additional coursework usually required for graduation
Strong international research community
Postdoc wrap-up year (typically granted for publishing and transitions)
Career development activities, retreats, and networking opportunities
Program Structure And Features
Thesis Advisory Committees (TACs)
Each PhD student is guided by a committee of expert scientists rather than a single supervisor. TACs provide structured feedback, interdisciplinary perspectives, and clear milestones throughout the PhD journey.
Cross-Disciplinary PhD Course
In the first year, students participate in an intensive one-month interdisciplinary research course. Small teams work on innovative mini-projects supervised by experimental and theoretical faculty, often leading to publications, grants, or full PhD projects.
Thursday Tutorials
Students introduce invited world-leading scientists and their research fields in interdisciplinary sessions, building scientific communication skills and cross-field understanding.
Good Scientific Practice (GSP)
All PhD candidates complete a certified Good Scientific Practice course covering research integrity, data management, authorship ethics, and conflict resolution.
Additional Program Highlights
Friday research seminars
Interdisciplinary elective courses
Peer-review presentation support (iFIT)
Open-door lab culture and cross-institution collaboration
Alumni networking and career days
Eligible Nationalities
Open to all nationalities
Applicants from any country are welcome
No nationality restrictions apply
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Hold (or expect to receive) an MSc degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field
Exceptional BSc-only applicants with significant research experience may be considered
High proficiency in spoken and written English
Strong academic performance and prior research experience
Genuine interest in the research vision of at least one IMPRS research group
Motivation for interdisciplinary and collaborative research
Scientific curiosity, independence, and resilience in research
Application Procedure
IMPRS-CellDevoSys recruits PhD students once per year through a joint selection process with its partner program DIGS-ILS.
Step By Step Application Process
Familiarize yourself with the IMPRS research groups
Confirm your eligibility and research interest
Request an account via the DIGS-ILS online application system
Submit personal information, CV, and referee details
Ask two referees familiar with your research to submit recommendations
Write statements on your research experience and motivation
Upload academic transcripts and certificates
Submit the completed application once recommendations are received
Applications submitted by email or directly to supervisors will not be considered.
Selection Process
Initial application review
Shortlisted candidates invited for online interviews
Final candidates invited to in-person interview week in Dresden
This multi-stage process ensures academic excellence, motivation, and program fit.
Application Deadline
PhD application calls typically open in late summer
Application deadlines usually fall in autumn
Interview stages take place in winter
Deadlines may vary each year, so applicants should always check the official program website for current timelines
Why Choose Imprs Celldevosys
One of the most interdisciplinary PhD programs in Europe
Backed by the Max Planck Society
Exceptional publication record in top journals such as Nature and Cell
Strong integration of theory, computation, and experiment
Located in Dresden, a leading European research hub
Frequently Asked Questions Faqs
Is the IMPRS-CellDevoSys PhD program fully funded? Yes, all accepted PhD candidates receive full financial support for the duration of their thesis.
Can international students apply for the IMPRS PhD program? Yes, the program is open to applicants from all countries and nationalities.
Is an MSc degree mandatory for admission? An MSc is generally required, but exceptional candidates with a BSc and strong research experience may be considered.
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Card
Funding
Fully Funded
Organization
International Max Planck Research School
Degree
PhD
Subjects
All Subjects, Cellular Biology, System Biology, Cell and Development Biology
Nationality
International Students
Country
Germany
Source
Information provided by scholarships_ads.