PhD Programme in Computational Neuroscience at Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin (BCCN Berlin) Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin in Germany

The Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience Berlin (BCCN Berlin) offers an international, interdisciplinary PhD programme focused on computational neuroscience. This field integrates theoretical approaches from neurobiology, cognitive science, medical research, computer science, mathematics, physics, and engineering to advance understanding of the brain. The programme is hosted by BCCN Berlin and operates in cooperation with Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Technische Universität Berlin. Students benefit from structured supervision, access to lectures and seminars, and a broad range of courses teaching transferable skills.

Research forms the core of the doctoral project, complemented by coursework. Students participate in seminars to present their projects, fostering interdisciplinary interaction. Monthly invited talks by international speakers and a lecture series on theoretical and experimental neuroscience and machine learning are offered. Individualised curricula are tailored to each student's needs, including courses at Berlin's major universities, graduate programmes, summer schools, and workshops. Students are required to earn 15 ECTS (20 ECTS for the Charité PhD degree) in advanced topics and 10 ECTS in soft skills courses such as project writing, scientific presentation, and ethical/legal issues in neuroscience.

Each student is supervised by a principal thesis adviser and a co-adviser, forming a doctoral committee with additional senior scientists. Within three months of acceptance, students must present and defend a written project proposal. Annual meetings with the committee monitor progress. Teaching takes place mainly at BCCN Berlin on the Campus Nord of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and at Technische Universität Berlin.

The programme features international elements, including guest lecturers, workshops, symposia, and projects with partners in Germany and abroad. Doctoral students may be involved in teaching or tutorial activities. No tuition fees are charged, but a semester contribution of approximately 315 EUR applies. Living costs are estimated at a minimum of 1,300 EUR per month. Accommodation options are available through the Berliner Studentenwerk or private arrangements.

Funding opportunities exist within the university, though the programme does not directly offer doctoral positions. Candidates should contact potential supervisors to inquire about funding. The programme is part of the Einstein Center for Neurosciences Berlin and awards two DAAD Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) doctoral scholarships in 2026. Applicants must hold an MSc or equivalent degree with a strong mathematical background and provide proof of English proficiency if not a native speaker. The application deadline is 15 March for the following winter semester. Career advisory services, specialist counselling, visa support, and registration assistance are available for international students.

Berlin, the capital of Germany, offers a vibrant academic and cultural environment, with extensive green spaces, theatres, museums, and cinemas. The BCCN Berlin comprises over 70 research groups and is part of the Bernstein Network for Computational Neuroscience, integrating research across multiple institutions. The programme prepares graduates to communicate across diverse disciplines and contribute to the rapidly growing field of neuroscience.