How to apply

We recruited eight doctoral researchers in 2024. Our next call will be at the beginning of 2025.

 

OUR SELECTION PROCEDURE:

Application process (three steps)

Step 1: eligibility check

To be eligible to apply to IMPRS you must hold a Master of Science degree, Diploma, or equivalent. It is not necessary to have the degree at time of application, however, you must have been awarded your degree prior to start of the doctorate program (envisaged 1 September, 2025). You must be fluent in written and spoken English. We do not require an official language certificate, but your proficiency will be tested in the interview phase by the panel.

Step 2: project / supervisor choice

We will publish a list of projects and mentors at the time of the call. Please review the project descriptions and engage with the associated material. If a project piques your interest, then you should email the designated supervisor for further discussion. Please a) briefly state why you are interested in this particular project, b) name two persons for a reference, c) enclose your CV.

Ensuing discussion will ensure that any decision to commit to a doctorate is an informed one and you should only proceed to step 3 once you have engaged in dialog with a potential supervisor and have passed successfully through an online interview.

You can apply for a maximum of two projects.

Generic applications will not be further considered.

Step 3: formal application

After having been prompted by the designated supervisor you will prepare a formal application. This will include a letter of motivation (max. 1 page) and your CV as well as your bachelor (and master) certificate. The letter should include an explanation of why you wish to pursue a doctorate and provide a reasoned scientific argument for your choice of project.

You should combine all parts of the application in a single PDF. We explicitly ask you to refrain from submitting application photos. If applying for two projects, you must tender two separate applications. Applications are submitted using an online submission system. You will receive the link from the project‘s Principal Investigator. The portal will be open from 1-18 February.

Appraisal process

Applications will be reviewed by the application panel. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to visit the host institution in April, under the condition that travelling and in-person meetings will be possible. If not, this final round of interviews will also take place via video conference. Directly after the selection symposium, the IMPRS faculty will decide who of the candidates will be offered a position.

Successful candidates will be notified as soon as possible after the final decision.

TIMELINE 2025

To be announced