International PhD Program in Microbiology

Are you passionate about cutting-edge research in microbiology? The Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology in Marburg, Germany, invites applications for fully funded PhD positions through the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) Principles of Microbial Life. This interdisciplinary program offers a vibrant environment for scientific growth and discovery.
Why Choose This Program?
The International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) brings together world-class researchers and cutting-edge facilities to explore the fundamentals of microbial life. With over 30 research group leaders, the program provides:
- Comprehensive Research Areas:
- Cellular organization and architecture
- Microbial communities and host-microbe interactions
- Natural products and chemical biology
- Physical biology
- Physiology and metabolism
- Signal transduction and information processing
- Systems and synthetic biology
- Interdisciplinary Focus – Collaborate across biology, chemistry, biophysics, and computational sciences.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities – Access advanced laboratories, imaging tools, and bioinformatics platforms.
Key Features of the PhD Program
- Fully Funded Scholarships – Competitive salary based on the Collective Agreement for the Public Service in Germany (TVöD), including health and social insurance.
- International Community – Join a diverse, global research network with participants from various disciplines and backgrounds.
- Mentoring and Supervision – Benefit from expert guidance through a thesis advisory committee.
- Structured Training Program – Participate in:
- Lectures and seminars
- Scientific and transferable skill workshops
- Conferences and retreats
- Networking events
- Career Development Support – Access career coaching and assistance services for international researchers.
Who Can Apply?
We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a background in any of the following fields:
- Biology
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Microbiology
- Bioinformatics
- Chemistry
- Chemical Biology
- Physics
- Biophysics
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must hold an MSc degree or equivalent in a related field.
- Strong interest in interdisciplinary research and microbial sciences.
Important Dates and How to Apply
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2025.
- Program Start Dates:
- Early admissions can start their research in Summer 2025.
- The official PhD program begins in October 2025.
Apply Online:
Submit your application directly through the IMPRS online application system.
Why Marburg, Germany?
Marburg is a historic and picturesque university town that offers a perfect balance of academic excellence and quality of life. It features:
- A vibrant student community.
- Rich cultural heritage and outdoor activities.
- Excellent transportation links for easy travel across Europe.
Program Partners
This program is a collaborative initiative between:
- Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology
- University of Marburg
- Center for Synthetic Microbiology
Contact Information
For inquiries, please contact:
- IMPRS Office
- Email: imprs@mpi-marburg.mpg.de
- Phone: +49 6421 178-905
Follow us on X (Twitter): @IMPRS_Mic
For detailed program information, visit the IMPRS Marburg Website.
Explore More Opportunities
- Check out other PhD positions in Sustainable Forest Use and Biodiversity at SLU, Sweden.
- Browse more opportunities and career resources at Bio Careers Hub.
Start your scientific journey today with IMPRS – where innovation meets discovery!