International Max Planck Research School for Science and Technology of Nano-Systems (IMPRS-STNS)
A competitive PhD programme in nanosystems science and technology at the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Halle (Saale).
Best for:Best for outstanding Master’s graduates in physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, or related fields seeking a fully funded, interdisciplinary PhD in nanosystems with strong mentorship and international exposure.
Overview
The International Max Planck Research School for Science and Technology of Nano-Systems (IMPRS-STNS) is a collaborative doctoral programme between the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, and the Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems. This programme focuses on cutting-edge research in atomically engineered materials for nanosystems, addressing critical challenges in information technology and sustainability. PhD candidates engage in interdisciplinary research, participate in tailored training programmes, and benefit from mentorship, career counselling, and international collaboration opportunities. The programme offers a doctoral contract covering living expenses and encourages completion within three years, with flexibility in start dates.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent and interdisciplinary research in advanced materials for nanosystems under the supervision of leading researchers.
- Participate in a tailored training programme including seminars, lectures, and complementary skills training (e.g., entrepreneurship, technology transfer, career counselling).
- Develop and present research findings through seminars, workshops, and annual retreats.
- Engage in international collaboration, including secondments and projects with partners in Germany and abroad.
- Write and defend a doctoral thesis in either English or German, with guidance from a Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC).
- Participate in integrated internships and spend time abroad during the PhD programme.
- Contribute to interdisciplinary discussions and collaborative research projects within the IMPRS-STNS network.
Requirements
Degree required: A very good Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, materials sciences, engineering, or a related field
Degree offered: Dr (Doctorate)
Language: English proficiency at C1 level (recommended but no formal proof required); no minimum German language requirement
Instruction: English (with option to write thesis in German)
- Strong academic background in physics, chemistry, materials science, or related disciplines
- Proven ability to conduct independent research
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Basic proficiency in scientific programming or computational tools (preferably demonstrated through academic work)
- No nationality restrictions
- Applicants with degrees from non-German universities must submit a Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications (one-time cost of approximately 200 EUR in the first year)
- No age restrictions
- No prior experience caps, but a strong academic record is essential
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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- Intake
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Applicants must submit their application through the official IMPRS-STNS portal. The application process is competitive and involves providing academic transcripts, a CV, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation. No formal deadline is listed, but applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Research proposal or statement of research interests
- Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3)
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable, though not strictly required)
- Statement of Comparability for Foreign Higher Education Qualifications (if applicable)
Contact
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