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Aging Biology and Translational Medicine● Open×12 positionsPreview

12 Fully Funded PhD Positions in Ageing Research

Join a prestigious interdisciplinary PhD programme at Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research with fully funded positions.

Best for:Best for recent MSc graduates in biology, biochemistry, bioengineering, or related fields with a strong interest in ageing research and excellent English proficiency.

University of Cologne · Cologne, Germany · R1 · First-stage researcher
More professors at University of Cologne
ageing biologycellular senescencemetabolic disease biologytranslational medicinedisease modellingbiomarker discovery
Deadline
Nov 3, 2026
19 days
Funding
Salaried
Based on the German TV-L E13 scale, 65% or equivalently remunerated PhD support contract of the Max Planck Society
Start date
Flexible between July 1 and October 1, 2027
Full-time
Location
Cologne
Germany

Overview

The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) offers up to 12 fully funded PhD positions within a collaborative network of leading institutions, including the University of Cologne, Max Planck Institutes, and associated hospitals. This structured programme provides access to cutting-edge research across 49 interdisciplinary groups focused on ageing biology, disease mechanisms, and translational medicine. PhD candidates will benefit from dedicated mentorship, comprehensive training in methodology and soft skills, career coaching, and annual conference travel grants. The programme is conducted entirely in English and aims to foster international talent in a vibrant academic environment.

fully funded PhDageing researchbiological sciencesinterdisciplinary PhD programmeMax Planck SocietyCologne Graduate SchoolEnglish-taught PhD

What you'll do

  • Conduct independent research within a structured PhD programme under the guidance of thesis advisory committees.
  • Develop and execute experimental or computational projects aligned with ageing-related research topics.
  • Participate in comprehensive training courses covering methodology, soft skills, and career development.
  • Present research findings at conferences and contribute to collaborative research projects.
  • Engage in interdisciplinary discussions and workshops within the CGA network.
  • Collaborate with research groups across multiple institutions (University of Cologne, Max Planck Institutes, University Hospital).
  • Document research progress and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Requirements

Degree required: Master of Science (MSc) or equivalent degree in Biology, Cell/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Bioinformatics, Biophysics, Genetics, Medical Biology, Translational Medicine, or related fields.

Degree offered: PhD

Language: English; C1 level (written and spoken)

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Excellent academic performance in BSc and MSc studies
  • Strong motivation and clear interest in ageing research
  • Proficient laboratory or computational skills relevant to biological sciences
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams
  • Familiarity with scientific research methodologies and data analysis
Nice to have
Prior research experience in ageing-related fieldsExperience with advanced techniques in molecular biology, genomics, or bioinformaticsPublication record in peer-reviewed journals
Eligibility
  • No nationality restrictions
  • No residency restrictions
  • No age limits
  • No prior experience caps beyond MSc degree

Funding & terms

Type
Salaried
Amount
Based on the German TV-L E13 scale, 65% or equivalently remunerated PhD support contract of the Max Planck Society
Duration
At least 3 years (flexible start between July 1 and October 1, 2027)
Programme
University of Cologne, Max Planck Society, Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research
University of Cologne, Max Planck Society, Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-11-03 (Europe/Berlin)

Applicants must submit their application through the official Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research portal. The application process involves uploading required documents and completing an online form. Detailed instructions and the application link are available on the programme’s website.

Documents required
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Motivation letter
  • Official transcripts of BSc and MSc degrees
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Research proposal or statement of purpose
↗Apply on site

Contact

Daniela Morick· Contact for PhD Applications

daniela.morick@age.mpg.de

https://www.ageing-grad-school.de

Lab
Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA)
University of Cologne
Germany
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