International Max Planck Research School – Biological Intelligence (IMPRS-BI) PhD Programme
A structured, fully-funded doctoral programme exploring the mechanisms of biological intelligence through neuroscience, behavior, and evolution.
Best for:Best for highly motivated graduates in natural sciences seeking a structured, interdisciplinary PhD in biological intelligence.
Overview
The International Max Planck Research School for Biological Intelligence (IMPRS-BI) is a premier doctoral training programme based in Germany. It is a collaborative initiative between the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and the Technical University of Munich. The programme focuses on how nervous systems evolve and function to enable animals to navigate their environments and solve complex problems. Students receive expert supervision, access to state-of-the-art research facilities, and a tailored curriculum designed to foster both scientific and transferable skills. The school aims to prepare graduates for successful careers in academia and beyond by bridging disciplines such as neuroscience, behavioural ecology, and evolutionary genetics.
What you'll do
- Conduct original scientific research under the guidance of a primary advisor and a thesis advisory committee.
- Participate in the structured training curriculum, including scientific, computational, and transferable skills workshops.
- Engage in interdisciplinary research projects bridging neuroscience, ecology, and evolution.
- Contribute to the academic community through seminars, workshops, and collaborative research activities.
- Optionally assist in laboratory courses for Bachelor's or Master's level students to gain teaching experience.
Requirements
Degree required: MSc or equivalent degree in biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, physics, computer science, chemistry, mathematics, or related natural sciences; or a four-year BSc Honours degree (240 ECTS).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; B2 level required, verified via placement test or interview.
Instruction: English
- Strong academic background in natural sciences.
- Proficiency in English (B2 level or higher).
- Ability to conduct independent and collaborative research.
- Must hold a qualifying Master's degree or a four-year Bachelor's Honours degree (240 ECTS).
- Open to international applicants.
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
- 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
Applications are accepted during an annual call announced in autumn. Interested candidates should visit the official IMPRS-BI website to review specific eligibility criteria and follow the instructions provided in the online application portal.
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
Contact
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