IMPRS For Biology And Computation Phd Programme 2027 in Germany | Fully Funded — Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics and partner universities
Biology’s most interesting questions increasingly need computational answers, and the IMPRS for Biology and Computation was built specifically to train researchers who can move fluidly between the two.
About the Scholarship
Hosted by the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, IMPRS-BAC trains doctoral candidates at the interface of molecular life sciences and computational sciences. Each annual call publishes specific project proposals and research descriptions, with new doctoral candidates joining through a welcome week and progressing through a structured curriculum alongside their individual thesis research.
Scholarship Benefits
The programme provides comprehensive doctoral funding and structure.
- A fully funded doctoral position covering living expenses
- No tuition fees for the duration of the programme
- A defined welcome week introducing new cohorts to the research environment
- Access to Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics facilities and computational infrastructure
- A curriculum combining computational and biological training
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants need a strong academic background in molecular life sciences, bioinformatics, computer science, or a related computational field, with exceptional graduates from around the world encouraged to apply. English language skills at C1 level are recommended, though formal proof is generally not required at the application stage.
Fields of Study Covered
Research areas sit at the intersection of genomics, molecular biology, and computational methods, including bioinformatics, computational modeling, and data-driven approaches to biological questions.
Required Documents
- Online IMPRS-BAC application
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- CV highlighting computational and biological research experience
- Statement of research interests tied to a specific project proposal
- Letters of recommendation
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
1. Review the annual project proposals and research descriptions published each autumn.
2. Identify a specific project or research group matching personal interests and skills.
3. Prepare transcripts, a CV, and a statement of research interests.
4. Submit the complete application with recommendation letters by the stated deadline.
5. Attend interviews if shortlisted by the programme committee.
6. Join the incoming cohort’s welcome week once accepted.
Selection Process
The committee reviews the strength of the applicant’s combined biological and computational background, fit with the specific project proposals published that year, and overall academic performance, with particular attention to candidates who show genuine comfort working across both disciplines.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Tailoring the application to a specific published project proposal, rather than describing general interest in computational biology, shows the kind of preparation the selection committee responds to. Demonstrating coding or data analysis skills alongside a biology background, even through self-taught projects, reflects the interdisciplinary profile IMPRS-BAC was built to train. Students comparing other Berlin-based structured PhD programmes may also want to review the Berlin Mathematical School PhD Fellowship for a related quantitative doctoral track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do project proposals change every year?
Yes, new project proposals and research descriptions are announced each autumn, so applicants should review the current year’s offerings before applying.
Is a computer science degree required, or can biology graduates apply?
Both backgrounds are welcome, as long as applicants can demonstrate genuine interest and some competence in the complementary discipline, whether that is computation or biology.
Is proof of English proficiency required?
C1-level English skills are recommended, but formal proof is generally not a strict requirement at the application stage.
What happens during the welcome week?
New doctoral candidates are introduced to the research environment, meet faculty and peers, and begin orientation into the programme’s structured curriculum.
How long does the PhD typically take?
Most students complete the programme within three to four years, consistent with other structured Max Planck doctoral schools.
Can applicants from outside Europe apply?
Yes, the programme explicitly seeks exceptional graduates from around the globe, with no nationality restriction on eligibility.
Is prior programming experience mandatory before applying?
While not strictly mandatory, having some demonstrated coding or data analysis experience strengthens an application given the programme’s strong computational component.
Does the programme offer rotation projects before choosing a thesis?
Many incoming students have an initial period to explore specific projects and research groups before formally committing to a thesis topic.
Can the PhD be jointly supervised with a partner university?
Yes, joint supervision arrangements with partner universities are common, depending on the specific project and research group involved.
Does the institute provide relocation support for new doctoral students?
Incoming students typically receive guidance on housing, visa, and registration logistics from the institute’s administrative staff, though the core funding is centered on the doctoral stipend.