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International Max Planck Research School – Physics of Light (IMPRS-PL)

A structured international graduate programme offering MSc and PhD training in the physics of light.

Best for:Best for students with a background in physics or engineering seeking a structured, research-focused graduate education in optics and photonics.

Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light · Erlangen, Germany · R1 · First-stage researcher
More professors at Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light
OpticsPhotonicsQuantum EffectsLight-Matter InteractionPhysics of Light
This is a masters position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
15 January and 31 May for the academic year starting in the following October
Funding
—
4 semesters
Start date
October
Full-time
Location
Erlangen
Germany

Overview

The International Max Planck Research School – Physics of Light (IMPRS-PL) is a collaborative graduate programme between the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, and the Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin. The programme provides comprehensive training in fundamental science, optics, and photonics for students holding a Bachelor's degree. Participants engage in coursework and research training, with the opportunity to pursue both Master's and PhD degrees within a highly international and research-intensive environment. The curriculum is conducted entirely in English, and the school offers extensive support for international students, including language training and career development.

PhysicsPhotonicsOpticsGraduate ProgrammeMScPhDMax Planck

What you'll do

  • Complete coursework in fundamental science and specialized topics in physics and engineering.
  • Conduct independent research training leading to an MSc thesis.
  • Participate in mandatory internships with IMPRS Principal Investigators.
  • Engage in career development workshops and professional skills training.
  • Contribute to the international research community through collaborative projects.

Requirements

Degree required: Bachelor's degree in physics or engineering

Degree offered: MSc

Language: English; B2 level required (IELTS 5.5, TOEFL iBT 72, or equivalent).

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Strong academic background in physics or engineering.
  • English proficiency at B2 level or higher (IELTS 5.5, TOEFL iBT 72, or equivalent).
  • Ability to conduct research in an international, collaborative environment.
Nice to have
Prior research experience in optics or photonics.Intercultural communication skills.
Eligibility
  • Must hold a Bachelor's degree in physics or engineering.
  • Non-EU applicants must pay a processing fee of 100 EUR as of winter 2026/27.

Funding & terms

Type
Unknown
Amount
—
Duration
4 semesters
Programme
IMPRS
Max Planck Society

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
Not confirmed by the source
Teaching language
Not confirmed by the source
Taught / research mode
Not confirmed by the source
Study mode
Not confirmed by the source
Campus
Not confirmed by the source
Prerequisites
Not confirmed by the source
Application instructions
Not confirmed by the source
Tuition
Not confirmed by the source
Funding
Not confirmed by the source

How to apply

Deadline: 2025-05-31

Applications must be submitted through the official online portal provided by the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light. Applicants should ensure all required documentation is prepared according to the guidelines on the programme website.

Documents required
  • Academic transcripts
  • Language proficiency certificate
  • CV
  • Statement of purpose
↗Check programme and admissions

Contact

Lab
Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL)
Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light
IMPRSGermany
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Check admissions, intake and funding with the official source; a listing does not mean applications are open.