PhD / Doctorate •

Degree

PhD in Biology ("Doktor der Naturwissenschaften")

Doctoral degree or degree awarded by

University of Freiburg

In cooperation with

The Faculty of Biology at University of Freiburg 

Teaching language

• English

Languages

All courses organised by IMPRS-IEM are taught in English. There are additional courses at the university that are in German, but typically there are English equivalents as well.

The institute itself is very international, and English is the everyday working language.

Programme duration

8 semesters

Beginning

Only for doctoral programmes: any time

Application deadline

More information about the programme and on how to apply can be found on our website.

Tuition fees per semester in EUR

None

Combined Master's degree / PhD programme

No

Joint degree / double degree programme

No

Description/content

Our international research school is a collaborative programme with the University of Freiburg. It provides outstanding students with excellent research-oriented interdisciplinary training in biochemistry, cell biology, developmental biology, epigenetics, molecular biology, and biophysics. We train doctoral researchers to become self-reliant and to acquire and utilise the knowledge necessary for their research projects.

We offer:

• a stimulating English language programme in an international research environment
• access to more than 10 state-of-the-art core facilities
• intensive individualised mentoring by thesis advisory committees
• rotations in three laboratories before you start your PhD project
• structured training complementing your PhD research and professional development

Our scientists are internationally renowned experts in their fields, and you will have a chance to profit from their expertise and mentorship. You will also have an opportunity to interact with high-profile international speakers hosted by our faculty and build up your scientific network by attending local and international conferences through the generous travel grants that are provided to all of our IMPRS fellows. The IMPRS-IEM office also provides support for our international students settling into Freiburg. In fact, 78% of our students come from outside of Germany.

Course organisation

Laboratory Rotations

Each fellow enters the programme with rotations in three laboratories of their choice prior to the start of the PhD thesis, and in this way, the fellow finds a perfect match for his or her PhD project. In addition to the research on their projects, PhD students undertake a training programme covering various techniques in molecular and cellular biology, new technologies, theoretical knowledge and in-depth analysis of scientific literature.

Courses

The IMPRS-IEM programme has minimal course requirements, but offers a diverse portfolio of courses, workshops, and seminars to our students. This scientific education is complemented by various soft skills courses to enhance skills in professional development. Courses relating to scientific writing and presentation, time and project management are offered to enhance essential skills that are necessary not only while studying for a PhD but also for future careers inside and outside of the lab.

A Diploma supplement will be issued

Yes

International elements

• International guest lecturers
• Language training provided
• Training in intercultural skills
• Study trips
• Projects with partners in Germany and abroad

Teaching/work obligations or opportunities

There are no teaching obligations, but students have the opportunity to teach and supervise graduate and undergraduate students at the university for their own personal development.

The university also offers courses that train students in skills needed for teaching in English in order to enhance the students' teaching profiles.

Special promotion / funding of the programme

• IMPRS

Course-specific, integrated German language courses

No

Course-specific, integrated English language courses

No

Tuition fees per semester in EUR

None

Semester contribution

Most students are required to matriculate at the University of Freiburg. Current semester fees are 161 EUR. This fee includes access to a variety of university services and discounted public transport in Germany.

Funding opportunities within the university

Yes

Description of the above-mentioned funding opportunities within the university

The PhD positions are initially funded for three years. Extensions for one more year are possible.
Generous travel grants are provided to all of our IMPRS fellows.

Academic admission requirements

We welcome applications from all countries. A Master's degree (MSc) or "Diplom" (or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, biomedicine, chemistry, physics or a related field will be required. It is not necessary to hold the degree at the time of application. It must, however, be awarded by the programme start date.

Language requirements

Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English. Certificates (TOEFL or IELTS) to document language proficiency are not required.

German is not required, but international students will be offered opportunities to take German language courses.

Application deadline

More information about the programme and on how to apply can be found on our website.

Submit application to

More information about the programme and how to apply can be found on our website: https://www.ie-freiburg.mpg.de/apply-imprs-iem . Applications are only accepted through our online portal.

Accommodation

Relocation and Integration Assistance

IMPRS-IEM or the MPI-IE International Office can be of assistance in finding accommodation in Freiburg. Instructions on how to find housing in Freiburg is covered during the orientation week, and other practical advice is also provided (e.g. banking, cell phone plans, residence permits, etc.). 

Students will have the opportunity to stay in the guest rooms of the MPI-IEM when arriving in Freiburg while they look for an apartment.

Structured research and supervision

Yes

Research training / discussion

Yes

Career advisory service

IMPRS fellows are mentored for future careers in multiple ways. Discussion of future careers is a requirement during the thesis committee meetings of advanced students and is part of the discussion during annual meetings with the IMPRS coordinator. 

Furthermore, there are multiple trainings offered for certain careers (e.g. academic or industry scientists) including CV and cover letter training, mock interviews, and how to effectively look for jobs after the PhD. IMPRS-IEM hosts a career evening and hosts professionals with different careers to network with the students.

Support for international students and doctoral candidates

• Welcome event
• Buddy programme
• Cultural and linguistic preparation
• Visa matters

Supervisor-student ratio

On average, there are less than three PhD students per lab of our faculty.

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