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Ageing Biology and Biomedical Sciences● Open×12 positionsPreview

12 Fully Funded PhD Positions in Ageing Research

Join Cologne’s leading ageing research cluster for a fully funded PhD in biology, biochemistry, or bioinformatics.

Best for:Best for MSc graduates in biology, biochemistry, or bioinformatics with a passion for ageing research and excellent English proficiency.

Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) · Cologne, Germany · R1 · First-stage researcher
More professors at Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA)
ageing biologycellular senescencemolecular biology of ageingtranslational medicinebiomedical researchsystems biology
Deadline
Nov 3, 2026
19 days
Funding
Salaried
TV-L E13 scale, 65% or equivalently remunerated PhD support contract of the Max Planck Society
Start date
flexible (contract begins after admission)
Full-time
Location
Cologne
Germany

Overview

The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) offers up to 12 fully funded PhD positions within a prestigious interdisciplinary research network. Based in Cologne, Germany, this programme combines expertise from the University of Cologne, Max Planck Institutes, and University Hospital Cologne. Applicants will conduct cutting-edge research in ageing biology, mentored by thesis advisory committees, within a vibrant international environment. The programme provides comprehensive support, including career mentoring, methodology training, and travel grants, all conducted in English. Ideal candidates should hold an MSc in life sciences and demonstrate strong motivation for ageing research.

fully funded PhDageing researchbiomedical sciencesMSc to PhD transitioninterdisciplinary researchMax Planck collaborationGerman TV-L E13 fundingEnglish-language programme

What you'll do

  • Conduct independent research in ageing biology under the guidance of a thesis advisory committee
  • Develop and execute experimental or computational research projects aligned with ageing-related topics
  • Present research findings at conferences and contribute to collaborative publications
  • Participate in interdisciplinary training programmes, including methodology and soft skills courses
  • Engage in career mentoring and networking within the CGA community
  • Collaborate with researchers across multiple institutes (University of Cologne, Max Planck Institutes, University Hospital Cologne)

Requirements

Degree required: MSc or equivalent degree in Biology, Cell/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Bioinformatics, Biophysics, Genetics, Medical Biology, Translational Medicine, or related fields

Degree offered: PhD

Language: English; C1 level (written and spoken)

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Excellent academic performance in BSc and MSc studies
  • Strong motivation and interest in ageing research
  • Proven ability to conduct independent research
  • Very good written and spoken English (C1 level)
  • Proficiency in laboratory techniques or computational methods relevant to ageing research
Nice to have
Experience with interdisciplinary research approachesPrior involvement in collaborative projectsFamiliarity with bioinformatics or computational biology tools
Eligibility
  • No nationality restrictions
  • No residency requirements
  • No age limits
  • No prior experience caps

Funding & terms

Type
Salaried
Amount
TV-L E13 scale, 65% or equivalently remunerated PhD support contract of the Max Planck Society
Duration
at least three years
Programme
Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA), University of Cologne, Max Planck Society
Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA), University of Cologne, Max Planck Society

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-11-03 (Europe/Berlin)

Applicants must submit their application through the official CGA portal. The application process includes providing academic transcripts, a CV, a research statement, and proof of English proficiency. Additional documents may be requested based on the programme requirements. The application period runs from August 11 to November 3, 2026.

Documents required
  • CV
  • Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
  • Research statement or proposal
  • Proof of English proficiency (C1 level)
  • Letters of recommendation (if required)
  • Motivation letter
↗Apply on site

Contact

Lab
CGA Research Network (49 interdisciplinary groups)
Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA)
Germany
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