Overview

The work of the Max Planck School Matter to Life (MPS MtL) focuses on methods to describe, model, and ultimately harness the laws of physics and chemistry that dictate the biological processes of dynamic spatiotemporal organization of life into molecules, cells, tissues and organisms. Thus, the MPS MtL not only pushes the boundaries of our understanding of life, but also paves the way for filling the knowledge gap in fundamental biology and finding innovative solutions to some of the most pressing challenges in biotechnology and medicine.

Throughout the PhD Phase of the MtL Direct Track Program you are going to apply your gained knowledge and experiences from the Master phase to a specific research question building up on latest scientific achievements and applying cutting edge technologies. You will also benefit from the MtL community and your network which you started developing during the first phase and which will continuously grow over this time. You will graduate with the academic title "Dr. rer. nat.", the German equivalent to the PhD awarded in English-speaking countries.

Programme Structure

You will have access to cutting-edge science and modern research facilities
We strongly encourage exchange and cooperation within the MtL network as well as with cooperation partners outside of Germany
In order to ensure the best supervision and support during this phase, similarly to the Master phase, you will have the option to consult a mentor and discuss scientific as well as career-oriented topics
Your progress will be evaluated during an annual meeting with your thesis advisory committee consisting of scientific experts in your research area, which offer additional support and guidance for your project

You will participate and contribute to various events, including scientific symposia and conferences, skill and career workshops and community events designed to follow the needs and interests of our students

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2025-09-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2024-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

IELTS

6.5

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TOEFL^® IBT

90

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Delivered

On Campus

Disciplines

Physics Biotechnology Biochemistry View 11 other PhDs in Biochemistry in Germany

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

IELTS

6.5

Schedule an IELTS test!

TOEFL^® IBT

90

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Student insurance

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items, so make sure your student insurance ticks all the following:

Additional medical costs (i.e. dental)
Repatriation, if something happens to you or your family
Liability
Home contents and baggage
Accidents
Legal aid

We partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Max Planck School Matter to Life and/or in Germany, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Other requirements

General requirements

We invite undergraduate students with a background in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Materials Science or Engineering (or a related sub-field) to apply to our program
Whether your previous study is relevant will be decided on a case-to-case basis and depends on your transcript and specific modules you have completed
Your previous study needs to have the equivalent of 96 ECTS
Solid knowledge of the English language is necessary for your success in the program, which will be conducted entirely in English; an internationally-accepted language test is required for non-native English speakers (exceptions are your native language being English or your previous program being taught in English); proof of proficiency can be submitted after the selection process
For detailed admission criteria, please check our website

Tuition Fee

To always see correct tuition fees

International

Free

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 0 EUR per year during 36 months.
EU/EEA

Free

Tuition Fee

Based on the tuition of 0 EUR per year during 36 months.

Living costs for Heidelberg

922 - 1397 EUR /month

Living costs

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Students will be employed on a full employment contract according to the local Wage Agreement for Public Service.

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Matter to Life (PhD Phase).

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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