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Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology

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Fully Funded PhD Positions in Plant Biology, Molecular Plant Physiology, and Related Fields in Europe Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology in Germany

Fully Funded PhD Positions in Plant Biology, Molecular Plant Physiology, and Related Fields in Europe

Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology

Germany

Jan 10, 2026

Keywords

Cell Biology
Environmental Science
Agriculture
Plant Biology
Biology
Plant Breeding
Systems Biology
Bioinformatics
Plant-microbe Interactions
Genetics,
Plant Molecular Biology
Soil Improvement
Experimental Plant Sciences

Description

Multiple fully funded PhD positions are open in Plant Biology, Molecular Plant Physiology, Plant Breeding, Plant–Microbe Interactions, and related disciplines at top international research institutes and graduate schools in Europe. Opportunities are available at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology (IMPRS Program), Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research (MPIPZ), CEPLAS Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), and IMCBio International PhD Program in France. The IMPRS MolPlant program at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology offers doctoral research under the guidance of directors, group leaders, and senior scientists, with most researchers enrolled at the University of Potsdam. The program provides cutting-edge training in molecular plant sciences, experimental and bioinformatic approaches, and a lively international environment near Berlin. The application call is open until January 10, 2026, for positions starting in the second half of 2026. At MPIPZ, the International Max Planck Research School on Interdisciplinary Plant Biology collaborates with the University of Cologne, offering five fully funded PhD positions in computational, mathematical, and experimental plant sciences. Research groups study regulatory networks, plant development, immunity, and microbiome effects, using genetics, genomics, biochemistry, imaging, and computational modeling. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a related subject and demonstrate academic excellence and English proficiency. The application deadline is January 5, 2026. CEPLAS is recruiting 10 fellows for its graduate school, focusing on plant performance, adaptation, and crop improvement. The application deadline is January 18, 2026. ISTA in Austria offers a highly interdisciplinary, fully funded PhD program in molecular biology, systems biology, chemistry, neuroscience, mathematics, computer science, physics, and related areas. The application portal is open until January 8, 2026. Applicants must submit a CV, statement of purpose, transcripts, and referee contacts. The IMCBio International PhD Program at the University of Strasbourg, France, covers molecular and cellular biology, integrative biology, regulatory RNA networks, and functional genomics. Research is conducted in five institutes, with projects in nuclear dynamics, regenerative medicine, actin-associated neurological complications, and more. Applicants must hold or expect to receive an M2 or equivalent degree and show strong motivation, communication skills, and scientific independence. The application period is November 24, 2025, to January 25, 2026. All programs offer fully funded positions, including tuition and competitive stipends, with support for three years and possible extensions. International and collaborative research environments, state-of-the-art facilities, mentoring, and career development support are provided. Applicants should review each program’s website for specific requirements and deadlines, prepare necessary documents, and apply online. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. Key research areas include plant biology, molecular plant physiology, plant breeding, plant–microbe interactions, systems biology, cell biology, genetics, bioinformatics, and crop improvement. These opportunities are ideal for highly motivated students seeking advanced training and research experience in modern plant science.

Funding

All positions are fully funded, covering tuition and providing a competitive stipend. Funding is typically based on Max Planck Society doctoral contracts (TVöD 13, 65%) or equivalent, with support for 3 years and possible extension. Additional financial support may be available through research clusters or graduate schools. Fellowships are awarded based on merit and project ranking.

How to apply

Apply online via the respective graduate school or institute application portals. Prepare and submit required documents including CV, statement of purpose, transcripts, and contact information for referees. Check each program’s website for specific instructions and deadlines. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.

Requirements

Applicants must hold or expect to hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent, such as M2) in a related subject by 2026. Candidates should demonstrate academic and research excellence, strong motivation, and fluency in written and spoken English. Additional requirements include a proven track record in relevant fields such as plant biology, molecular biology, genetics, or bioinformatics. Selection criteria include undergraduate performance, reference letters, statement of purpose, technical and transferable skills, and diversity. International students are encouraged to apply.

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