University of Bonn
Just Landed
Posted Yesterday
Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) Doctoral Programme University of Bonn in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Available
Country
Germany
University
University of Bonn
Apply for this position
Keywords
Suggested positions
About this position
The Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) is a structured doctoral programme based at the Centre for Development Research (ZEF), an institute of the University of Bonn in Germany. It offers a full-time, English-language doctoral training environment for applicants from all countries, with a planned duration of 7 semesters and start in the winter semester.
BIGS-DR is designed for candidates who want to build a research-oriented career in sustainable development. The programme combines research training, supervision, and a tailored qualification programme, and it is embedded in the University of Bonn’s strong research ecosystem as one of Germany’s Universities of Excellence. The programme highlights international collaboration and interdisciplinary research as core strengths.
Research interests at ZEF span agriculture, land use, climate change, water resources management, biodiversity, food and nutrition, health, gender, migration, mobility, urbanisation, governance and conflict, markets and services, and innovation and science policy. This makes the doctoral school especially relevant to students interested in development economics, agricultural systems, environmental change, policy analysis, and related fields.
Applicants should note that the programme has no tuition fees. International students admitted to the programme may apply for a dorm room through the programme coordinator, although accommodation cannot be guaranteed due to limited availability. The University of Bonn also offers career guidance and support services for international students, including a central Career Service, the iStart career programme, and Welcome Days before each semester.
The application deadline given here is 31 August 2026 for the winter semester. Interested applicants should register through the programme website and review the detailed application information online before submitting materials.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants from all countries may apply for the winter semester by the stated deadline. The programme is a doctoral degree (Dr./PhD), taught in English, full-time, and lasts 7 semesters. No specific GPA, test score, or discipline prerequisites beyond the development research focus are stated in the provided text.
How to apply
Register online via the programme application link. Submit your application by 31 August 2026 for the winter semester intake. Check the programme website for more details on application periods and the full application process.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.