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- ABOUT THE COLOGNE GRADUATE SCHOOL
The Cologne Graduate School offers an international research environment known for its excellence in ageing research, strong academic supervision, early independence in research, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The school is dedicated to providing top-class conditions for young scientists in an innovative and inspiring setting.
Its competitive PhD programme serves as a world-class platform for building a successful career in science. Highly selective in nature, the programme invites outstanding university graduates who aspire to pursue a PhD in the field of ageing and age-related diseases, welcoming them into Cologne’s vibrant and international research community.
WHEN IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE:
November 3, 2025 (Applications open on August 12, 2025)
TELL ME ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY:
The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) is offering 12 fully funded PhD fellowships for the class of 2026. This prestigious programme brings together the University of Cologne, University Hospital Cologne, and the Max Planck Institutes for Biology of Ageing and Metabolism Research.
It provides world-class research training in ageing and age-related diseases, preparing graduates for careers in academia and industry.
WHICH FIELDS ARE ELIGIBLE?
• Biology / Molecular & Cell Biology
• Biochemistry & Biophysics
• Genetics & Bioinformatics
• Bioengineering
• Medical Biology
• Neuroscience
• Translational Medicine
• Related life science fields
Applicants with a medical degree plus research experience are also eligible.
TYPE:
Fully Funded PhD Fellowships (3+ years, paid employment contracts)
WHO CAN APPLY?
Applicants must:
• Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
• Demonstrate excellent academic performance and strong motivation for research.
• Have English proficiency at C1 level (certificate recommended but not compulsory).
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HOW ARE APPLICANTS SELECTED?
1. August–November 2025: Online application review.
2. December 2025: ~80 candidates invited to online panel interviews.
3. February 2026: ~25 finalists invited to recruitment week in Cologne.
4. July–October 2026: PhD positions begin.
WHICH COUNTRIES ARE ELIGIBLE?
🌍 All nationalities are welcome to apply.
WHERE WILL THE OPPORTUNITY BE TAKEN?
Cologne, Germany (University of Cologne + Max Planck Institutes)
HOW MANY POSITIONS?
12 fully funded PhD positions
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT OF THE OPPORTUNITY?
• 3+ year employment contracts (TV-L E13, 65%).
• No tuition fees.
• Structured PhD training with top-level supervision.
• Access to 49 interdisciplinary research groups.
• Mentorship & career coaching for academia/industry.
• Travel grants & workshops for conferences.
• Relocation and administrative support for international students.
• Entire programme taught in English.
HOW LONG WILL THE OPPORTUNITY LAST?
3+ years (full PhD duration)
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