IMPRS-BI is the doctoral school of the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, run with LMU and TUM in Munich. Doctoral researchers join one of more than 30 labs in behavior, ecology, neuroscience, connectomics and evolutionary genetics at Martinsried, Seewiesen or Munich.
LMU or TUM awards the Dr. rer. nat. or PhD, and as a general rule the thesis should be finished within four years. All teaching and lab communication is in English; German is not required.
Benefits & funding
- Typically a regular work contract equivalent to TVöD E13 from the supervisor, with health insurance and full social security.
- No tuition; a semester fee of about EUR 150.
- Munich living costs are estimated at EUR 1,200–1,600 a month minimum.
- Travel and accommodation for the Munich interview round are covered.
- A curriculum of at least 25 credit points, with a travel allowance for external training and conferences.
Eligibility
- Any nationality; no age limit.
- Usually an MSc or equivalent (about 300 ECTS) in biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, physics, computer science, chemistry, mathematics or related sciences.
- A first-class four-year UK BSc hons/MSci or European 240-ECTS BSc also qualifies, possibly with 15–60 extra ECTS.
- Three-year BSc holders: normally only via the LMU neuroscience fast track, which adds a preparatory year.
- The degree may be pending but must be held before starting; the university must be recognised in Germany (Anabin).
- Not eligible: medical degree holders (e.g. MBBS), German medical students and, typically, veterinary graduates.
- Fluent written and spoken English.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
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Education required
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Application process
- 1Register on the online portal between 1 October and 10 November 2026.
- 2Invite two referees through the portal; without both letters by the deadline the application is incomplete.
- 3Complete the form, including a motivation letter under one page and up to five recruiting groups with reasons.
- 4Upload a CV, transcripts and certificates; records not in English or German need certified translations.
- 5Submit online by 10 November 2026, 24:00 CET; postal or email applications are not accepted.
Program timeline
Portal opens
1 October 2026
Application deadline (24:00 CET)
10 November 2026
Online panel interviews
January 2027
Interviews in Munich
March 2027
Latest start date
1 October 2027