Max Planck School of Photonics – Direct PhD Track Programme
A combined Master’s-to-PhD programme in photonics with direct research entry for qualified applicants.
Best for:Best for physics, engineering, or related science graduates with a Master’s degree seeking a seamless transition into PhD-level research in photonics with direct industry and academic collaboration.
Overview
The Max Planck School of Photonics offers a unique integrated programme allowing students with a relevant Master’s degree to transition directly into a three-year PhD research phase. Based across three universities—Friedrich Schiller University Jena, FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg, and KIT Karlsruhe—this programme provides structured research supervision, international collaboration, and access to cutting-edge photonics facilities. Applicants conduct independent research under the mentorship of a faculty fellow, with opportunities for interdisciplinary projects and global partnerships. The programme emphasizes hands-on research, interdisciplinary training, and career development from the outset.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research in photonics under the guidance of a faculty fellow with matching research interests.
- Participate in structured research training and interdisciplinary discussions within the Max Planck School network.
- Engage in international projects with partners in Germany and abroad, fostering global collaboration.
- Attend language and intercultural training sessions to enhance professional and cross-cultural communication skills.
- Present research findings at conferences and seminars, contributing to the broader photonics community.
- Collaborate with peers across three universities to leverage diverse expertise and resources.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree (MSc, MEng, or MTech) in physics, engineering, or a closely related field with significant exposure to photonics or optical sciences.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English proficiency at B2 level (or equivalent), with official certification (e.g., TOEFL iBT 4 in all sections, IELTS Academic 5.5, or Cambridge English B2 First).
Instruction: English
- Proven academic background in physics, engineering, or related disciplines.
- Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of photonics or optical sciences.
- Ability to conduct independent research and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
- Proficiency in scientific writing and presentation skills.
- Experience with laboratory techniques and instrumentation relevant to photonics.
- Open to applicants from all countries.
- No age restrictions, but applicants must meet the academic prerequisites for the PhD phase.
- No residency requirements, but full-time attendance in Germany is compulsory.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-01 (Europe/Berlin)
Applicants must submit their application through the official Max Planck School of Photonics portal for the study phase. Required documents include a CV, proof of English proficiency, academic transcripts, a research statement, and letters of recommendation. The application period for the winter semester runs from September 1 to December 1 annually.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Official English proficiency certificate (B2 level)
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degree transcripts
- Research statement or proposal
- Two or three letters of recommendation
- Proof of relevant academic background in physics, engineering, or related fields
Contact
Max Planck School of Photonics Admissions· Admissions Office
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