PhD Programme in Life Sciences – Regensburg International Graduate School (RIGeL)
A structured PhD programme in Life Sciences offering interdisciplinary research and career development in Regensburg, Germany.
Best for:Best for Life Sciences graduates seeking a structured PhD programme with interdisciplinary research opportunities, mentorship, and career development support in a German-speaking academic environment.
Overview
The Regensburg International Graduate School of Life Sciences (RIGeL) offers a structured doctoral programme designed for young researchers in Life Sciences. Based at the University of Regensburg, this programme provides a high-quality education framework, combining cutting-edge research with career support. Students engage in four key disciplines—Biomedicine, Cellular Biochemistry and Biophysics, Molecular Ecology and Evolution, and Neurobiology—while benefiting from mentorship, method courses, and international collaboration. The programme emphasizes both scientific excellence and professional development, preparing graduates for careers in academia, industry, or public sectors. PhD candidates work within a collaborative environment, integrating modern research facilities and interdisciplinary training to foster innovation and critical thinking.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent research within one of four Life Sciences disciplines: Biomedicine, Cellular Biochemistry and Biophysics, Molecular Ecology and Evolution, or Neurobiology.
- Develop and execute a PhD project under the guidance of a mentoring team consisting of a supervisor and two mentors.
- Participate in method courses tailored to individual research projects, ensuring mastery of cutting-edge techniques.
- Present research findings at national and international scientific meetings, including poster presentations and talks.
- Engage in soft skills training, including presentation skills, project management, teamwork, and leadership development.
- Supervise undergraduate students to acquire didactic skills and contribute to teaching activities.
- Organize scientific meetings, invite guest speakers, and actively participate in programme organization to foster initiative and responsibility.
- Collaborate with international guest lecturers and peers through annual summer academies and interdisciplinary exchanges.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, biochemistry, biophysics, biotechnology, bioinformatics, or another core biological science from a recognized university. Alternatively, successful completion of medical school, pharmacy studies, or teacher training in biology (first state examination for teaching at gymnasium level).
Degree offered: Dr (Doctor of Philosophy)
Language: English proficiency at C1 level (no formal proof required). German language skills are not mandatory but may be advantageous for daily life and research collaboration.
Instruction: German and English (PhD thesis can be written in either language)
- Proven academic excellence with a final degree grade of 4.0 or better (German grading system).
- Strong background in biological sciences, biochemistry, or related disciplines.
- Ability to conduct independent research and critically evaluate scientific data.
- Basic proficiency in scientific writing and presentation skills.
- No nationality restrictions, but non-EU students must comply with German residency and work permit regulations.
- No age restrictions.
- Applicants must secure supervision from a faculty member before applying for RIGeL membership.
- No prior experience caps, but academic excellence and research potential are key criteria.
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
Prospective applicants must first identify and contact a faculty member to secure supervision. Once supervision is confirmed, applicants can apply for RIGeL membership via email to rigel.school@ur.de. No formal application deadline exists, but early contact with potential supervisors is strongly recommended.
- CV
- Proof of degree (Master’s or equivalent)
- Transcripts and academic records
- Letter of motivation
- Confirmation of supervision from a faculty member
Contact
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