How to apply
To apply to one of our open doctoral positions, please follow this link to the IMPRS application system. Applications via e-mail will not be considered!
How to apply for a PhD position in the Max Planck Society
We recommend asking your two referees personally before adding their details to the application portal. If they are willing and able to evaluate your academic skills before the deadline, we recommend adding their details on Tab 5 as soon as possible before completing your own details. Bear in mind that your referees' time is precious, too! If you do not intend to complete the application, please do not ask them for support unnecessarily. You might need it one day!
Note: Once you have sent the invitation, you cannot change your referees! Please note that your application will only be considered if we receive the two recommendation letters in time.
You will receive a confirmation email as soon as we receive your two recommendation letters and once your application is complete.
Required documents are:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV);
- Transcript of records (record of study) and Bachelor's degree certificate (BSc), Vordiplom or equivalent;
- Transcript of records and degree certificate for a Master's (MSc) degree, Diplom or equivalent (if applicable). If your degree programme has not yet been completed, please provide temporary transcripts;
- Two letters of recommendation will be required. Please ask your previous MSc supervisor;
- (only if you are a German applicant: High school degree transcripts or equivalent);
- A letter of motivation specifically addressing why you chose the selected project(s)/research group and why you want to join the IMPRS;
- For some projects, an additional research statement is requested. Please follow the specific instructions for the project you have chosen.
Recommended documents are:
- Certificate of Proficiency in English (recommended if you are not a native English speaker or if your education was not in English);
- (if applicable: Scholarships, prizes and awards)
- GRE subject tests in biochemistry, biology, mathematics, physics or a related subject. If you come from a non-EU country, a GRE subject test is recommended as it will strongly support your application. For applicants from India: We also accept GATE.
- International experience.
What we expect of our future IMPRS students:
- Strong scientific motivation;
- Serious interest in the activities of the doctoral programme.