Dresden Leibniz Graduate School (DLGS) Doctoral Programme in Sustainability Science
An interdisciplinary three-year doctoral programme focused on sustainable urban and regional transformation.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a strong Master's degree in spatial, social, or engineering sciences interested in sustainability.
Overview
The Dresden Leibniz Graduate School (DLGS) is a joint doctoral programme offered by the Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development (IOER) and the Dresden University of Technology (TUD). The programme provides an interdisciplinary environment for PhD candidates to conduct research on the sustainable development and transformation of cities and regions. Fellows are supported through a structured curriculum, regular supervisory board meetings, and opportunities for international networking. Applicants are expected to develop independent research proposals that align with the scientific remit of the IOER and the research areas of the TUD.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent doctoral research aligned with IOER research areas.
- Participate in the DLGS curriculum, including core courses in methodology and sustainability science.
- Present research progress regularly to a supervisory board.
- Engage in transdisciplinary knowledge co-production with public and private stakeholders.
- Contribute to the academic life of the graduate school through workshops and seminars.
- Prepare a doctoral dissertation in either monograph or cumulative format.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree with a grade of 'good' or better
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; C1 level (e.g., IELTS 7.0, TOEFL Essentials 10, or TOEIC 945)
Instruction: English
- Proven ability to conduct independent academic research.
- Strong research proposal aligned with IOER scientific profile.
- Proficiency in English at C1 level or higher.
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team environment.
- Master's degree must have been obtained within the last three years.
- Must be admitted to a relevant TUD faculty.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-09-01 · open until filled
Applications must be submitted via the official DLGS online portal. Candidates must provide a complete application package in English, including a research proposal that fits the institute's scientific profile. Email or hard-copy applications will not be accepted.
- Research proposal
- Master's degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- English language proficiency certificate
Contact
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