IMPRS For Intelligent Systems PhD Programme 2027 in Germany | Fully Funded — Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, University of Stuttgart, and University of Tübingen
Few doctoral tracks sit as close to the center of current AI and robotics research as the one built jointly by the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems and the universities of Stuttgart and Tübingen.
About the Scholarship
IMPRS-IS is an interdisciplinary doctoral programme spanning the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems and its university partners, training researchers across machine learning, robotics, computer vision, and related computational fields. Successful applicants are funded through an employment contract rather than a traditional stipend, following the rules of the Max Planck Society and the participating universities, with the entire programme conducted in English.
Scholarship Benefits
The employment-based funding model gives doctoral researchers full financial security.
- A doctoral employment contract covering salary and standard German social security benefits
- No tuition fees associated with the programme
- Access to Max Planck computing resources and robotics labs
- Collaborative supervision across the institute and both partner universities
- An entirely English-language programme and working environment
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants need a strong academic record in computer science, engineering, mathematics, physics, or a closely related field, typically holding a Master’s degree or equivalent. The programme welcomes applicants from around the world, and there is no German language requirement for admission given the English-language structure of the programme.
Fields of Study Covered
Research areas include machine learning theory, robotics and control, computer vision, computational neuroscience, and the broader study of intelligent systems spanning both biological and artificial intelligence.
Required Documents
- Online IMPRS-IS application
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- CV including any research or project experience
- Statement of research interests
- Letters of recommendation
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
1. Review the research groups across the Max Planck Institute, Stuttgart, and Tübingen to identify potential supervisors.
2. Prepare a statement of research interests connecting background to specific groups or projects.
3. Collect transcripts and secure letters of recommendation.
4. Submit the complete application by the November 15 deadline.
5. Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview process, which may include a technical discussion.
6. Successful applicants begin the doctoral contract from February of the following year or later.
Selection Process
The admissions committee reviews technical strength in computer science or a related quantitative field, research potential, and fit with specific research groups, with interviews often probing both theoretical understanding and hands-on project experience.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Candidates who can point to a concrete project, whether a thesis, open-source contribution, or research internship, in machine learning or robotics tend to stand out given how competitive this field has become. Referencing specific recent publications from a target research group during the interview process shows the kind of engagement the committee looks for. Students comparing other Max Planck doctoral programmes in Germany may also want to review the International Max Planck Research School for Biological Intelligence PhD Programme for a related interdisciplinary model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is funding provided as a stipend or an employment contract?
Funding comes through a doctoral employment contract rather than a stipend, which also provides standard German social security benefits.
Is a background specifically in AI required, or is general computer science enough?
A strong computer science, engineering, mathematics, or physics background is sufficient, as long as the application shows genuine interest in intelligent systems research.
How long does the PhD typically take?
Most candidates complete the programme in three to five years, depending on the specific research project and prior preparation.
Can I apply if I am still finishing my Master’s degree?
Yes, applicants nearing completion of their Master’s degree can apply, as long as the degree is finished before the doctoral contract begins.
Is German language proficiency needed for daily life in Stuttgart or Tübingen?
While the programme itself requires no German, many students find basic German useful for everyday tasks outside the university environment.
What happens after completing the PhD?
Graduates often move into postdoctoral research, academic positions, or roles in industry research labs focused on AI, robotics, or machine learning.
Are there specific intake dates throughout the year?
The programme runs a primary annual application cycle with a November deadline, leading to doctoral contracts starting from February of the following year.
Does the programme support research visits to other AI labs internationally?
Collaborative visits to partner labs and institutions are common during the PhD, particularly for projects with international co-supervision.
Is prior publication in a top AI venue required to be competitive?
While not strictly required, candidates with a strong research project, thesis, or publication record tend to be more competitive given how many applicants the programme receives.