Fully Funded PhD Positions in Plant Biology, Molecular Plant Physiology, and Related Fields at Leading European Institutes Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, CEPLAS Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria, University of Strasbourg (IMCBio Graduate School) in Germany

Multiple fully funded PhD positions are available in Plant Biology, Molecular Plant Physiology, Plant Breeding, Plant–Microbe Interactions, and related disciplines at leading European research institutes. Opportunities are open at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology (IMPRS MolPlant), Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research (MPIPZ), CEPLAS Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences, Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), and the IMCBio International PhD Program at the University of Strasbourg.

Research areas include molecular plant sciences, genetics, bioinformatics, systems biology, cell biology, crop improvement, and plant–microbe interactions. Programs offer interdisciplinary training, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborative international environments. Doctoral research is conducted under the supervision of top scientists and group leaders, with advisory committees and structured support for career development.

Funding is fully provided, covering tuition and a competitive stipend or salary (e.g., TVöD 13, 65% for Max Planck positions) for three years, with possible extension. Additional fellowships are available based on merit and project selection. Applicants must hold or expect to hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field, demonstrate academic excellence, motivation, and proficiency in English. Application materials typically include a CV, statement of purpose, transcripts, and referee contacts.

Application deadlines vary by program: IMPRS MolPlant (Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology) closes January 10, 2026; MPIPZ (Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research) closes January 5, 2026; ISTA closes January 8, 2026; CEPLAS closes January 18, 2026; IMCBio (University of Strasbourg) registration deadline is January 18, 2026, with final application by January 25, 2026. Interested candidates should review the research groups and projects at the respective institute websites and apply online via the official portals.

Supervisors include Daniel Riveline and Anne-Cécile Reymann at IGBMC (France), and Monika Schlosser at MPIPZ (Germany). Research topics range from cytoskeleton and cell physics, actin dynamics and neurodevelopmental disorders, to plant breeding and computational modeling. The programs encourage applications from international students and those with diverse backgrounds.

For more information, visit the provided links or contact the listed supervisors and program coordinators. These positions offer an excellent opportunity to work on cutting-edge questions in plant science and related fields, with strong support for professional growth and scientific development.