PhD Programme in Neuroscience (IMPRS Mechanisms of Mental Function and Dysfunction) at University of Tübingen University of Tübingen in Germany

The International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) Mechanisms of Mental Function and Dysfunction (MMFD) offers a highly interdisciplinary PhD programme in Neuroscience at the University of Tübingen, in cooperation with the Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Werner Reichardt Centre for Integrative Neuroscience. The programme is embedded within the Graduate Training Centre of Neuroscience (GTC), leveraging over 25 years of successful collaboration in training young neuroscientists.

This full-time, three-year doctoral programme culminates in the degree of Doctor of Natural Sciences in Neuroscience (Dr rer nat), equivalent to a PhD. Research topics span systems neuroscience, cognitive and behavioural neuroscience, computational neuroscience, translational and clinical neuroscience, as well as cellular and molecular neuroscience. Students benefit from ongoing support by their primary adviser and regular interaction with an advisory board composed of senior scientists from multiple institutions, providing interdisciplinary guidance and supervision.

Doctoral candidates participate in a wide spectrum of training courses, complementing their research activities in the labs. The programme features international guest lecturers, language training, and opportunities for integrated internships and travel grants for short research stays at other institutes. Structured research and supervision, as well as research training and discussion, are integral components. The IMPRS and university offer specialist counselling and comprehensive support for international students, including assistance with visas, housing, career opportunities, childcare, health insurance, banking, and administrative forms. On-boarding services are available through the Welcome Center.

There are no tuition fees for this programme. Enrolment fees are approximately 200 EUR per semester, which include local public transport benefits. Living costs are estimated at about 950 EUR per month. Doctoral students are funded by the lab where they conduct their research, and additional funding opportunities and travel grants are available. The University of Tübingen is renowned for its innovative, interdisciplinary, and international approach, and is one of Germany’s eleven universities distinguished as “excellent.”

Applicants must hold a Master of Science or equivalent degree with a strong background in neuroscience, biology, physics, biomedical sciences, computational science, applied mathematics, statistics, artificial intelligence, psychology, cognitive science, or engineering. Proof of English proficiency is required for non-native speakers, but applicants taught primarily in English do not need to submit standardized test results. Outdated test results are accepted. For precise application dates and comprehensive information about the application procedure, visit the IMPRS website.

The University of Tübingen is located in the historic city of Tübingen, offering a high quality of life, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and easy access to nature reserves, parks, and major economic and cultural centres. International guests can arrive conveniently via Stuttgart International Airport, with bus connections to the university.