Max Planck School Matter to Life – Integrated MSc/PhD Direct Track Programme
A unique interdisciplinary programme combining a Master’s in Matter to Life with a direct PhD track in cutting-edge research.
Best for:Best for outstanding international students with a strong background in natural sciences or engineering, seeking a fully funded interdisciplinary research pathway from Master’s to PhD.
Overview
The Max Planck School Matter to Life offers a combined Master’s and PhD programme spanning nine semesters or more, integrating scientific education and research. Based across Heidelberg University and the University of Göttingen, this initiative fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among leading scientists from Max Planck Institutes and partner universities. Students specialise in either Complex Systems and Biological Physics (Göttingen) or Molecular Systems Chemistry and Engineering (Heidelberg), with core curriculum courses taught collaboratively. After completing the Master’s, students transition seamlessly into a three-year PhD programme under the mentorship of a faculty fellow aligned with their research interests. The programme emphasizes hands-on laboratory rotations, networking, and mentorship to prepare students for advanced research careers.
What you'll do
- Complete a joint Master’s degree in Matter to Life through coursework at Heidelberg University or University of Göttingen, focusing on either Complex Systems and Biological Physics or Molecular Systems Chemistry and Engineering.
- Participate in laboratory rotations at associated Max Planck Institutes and partner universities to build research networks and gain hands-on experience.
- Engage in interdisciplinary research projects under the guidance of a faculty mentor aligned with your research interests.
- Develop a research proposal and conduct independent research leading to a PhD thesis under the supervision of a Max Planck School fellow.
- Collaborate with peers, mentors, and buddies to navigate the programme and advance your scientific and personal skills.
- Present research findings at conferences and contribute to interdisciplinary discussions within the programme.
Requirements
Degree required: A Bachelor of Science degree (e.g., in Chemistry, Physics, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Biotechnology) or a Bachelor of Engineering (e.g., in Molecular Systems Engineering, Bioengineering) with at least six semesters of study in a related natural science or engineering discipline.
Degree offered: Joint Master’s degree in Matter to Life followed by a PhD degree
Language: English; C1 proficiency (e.g., IELTS Academic 6.5 or equivalent). No minimum German language requirement.
Instruction: English
- Strong academic background in natural sciences or engineering, with at least 50% of credit points in natural sciences, including physics, chemistry, or mathematics.
- Proven above-average academic performance, demonstrated by a minimum GPA of 1.7 or ranking in the top five percent of your graduating class.
- Proficiency in English at C1 level, as evidenced by an official language certificate (e.g., IELTS Academic 6.5 or equivalent).
- Ability to engage in interdisciplinary research and collaboration across scientific disciplines.
- Open to applicants from all countries.
- No age restrictions.
- No residency requirements.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Study mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Application instructions
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- Tuition
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- Funding
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-12-01
Applicants must register and submit their application through the official Max Planck School Matter to Life portal. Required documents include a CV, proof of degree, language proficiency certificate, academic transcripts, and a statement of purpose. The application process is competitive and requires careful attention to deadlines and documentation.
- CV
- Proof of Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Official English language proficiency certificate (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose or research proposal
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
- Proof of above-average academic performance (GPA or ranking evidence)
Contact
Max Planck School Matter to Life· Programme Coordinator
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