The RNAmed Graduate Programme, funded by the Elite Network of Bavaria (ENB), is now accepting applications for its second cohort of PhD positions in RNA-based medicine. This prestigious programme offers 11 fully funded PhD positions (4 years) at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, as well as partner institutions in Munich and Regensburg, Germany. RNAmed is dedicated to training future leaders in the rapidly evolving field of RNA-based therapeutics, which has gained prominence through innovations such as RNA vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 and advances in diagnostics, prevention, and treatment of diseases.

Since its inception in 2022, RNAmed has brought together a diverse consortium of more than a dozen world-leading scientists specializing in RNA modification and delivery, CRISPR-Cas systems, microRNAs, non-coding RNA, RNA biology of infections, and RNA chemistry. The programme takes a holistic approach, offering structured mentoring, interdisciplinary guidance, and comprehensive training through summer schools, industry internships, workshops, and opportunities to present research at international conferences. Students will be prepared for careers in academia, industry, entrepreneurship, or policy-making within the broader area of RNA-based medicine.

Applicants are encouraged to select a mentor from the panel of experts listed at www.rnamed.de to best match their interests and background. The programme values international spirit, active networking, extracurricular activities, and pharmaceutical translation. Successful candidates will begin their PhD projects in January 2027, with flexibility for earlier or later start dates.

Eligibility requires a Master’s degree (with top grades) or equivalent in life sciences, chemistry, medicine, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related discipline. Applications are open to outstanding students of all nationalities. The participating universities aim to increase the proportion of female employees, and preference will be given to handicapped persons in case of equal aptitude. Applications must be submitted in English as a single PDF file by email to [email protected], including a cover letter, CV, contact information for two academic reference persons, relevant certificates, and a list of publications (if applicable).

Salary is based on the German public sector pay scale (TV-L), and the programme is fully funded by the Elite Network of Bavaria. The application deadline is March 24, 2026. Informal inquiries can be directed to the programme speaker, Prof. Jörg Vogel. For more information and to review the panel of supervisors, visit www.rnamed.de. Apply now to join a vibrant, interdisciplinary community advancing the frontiers of RNA-based medicine.