PHD Positions

Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research

Organisation/Company Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research Department University of Cologne Excellence Cluster CECAD, University Hospital Cologne, Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, caesar Research Field Biological sciences » Biology Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Final date to receive applications 3 Nov 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Country Germany Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 40 Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2027 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) in Germany is a joint venture of the University of Cologne Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), the University Hospital and the Max Planck Institutes for Biology of Ageing and for Metabolism Research.

We offer up to

12 FULLY FUNDED PHD POSITIONS

to highly motivated and talented researchers. The structured PhD training programme within a cutting-edge research environment will start on an individual basis between July 1 and October 1, 2027.

WE OFFER

• An outstanding international research environment at one of Europe's most prestigious ageing research clusters, comprising 49 interdisciplinary research groups
• Initial work contracts of at least three years with payment based on the German TV-L E13 scale, 65% or on an equivalently remunerated PhD support contract of the Max Planck Society
• Dedicated supervision with academic guidance from thesis advisory committees
• Comprehensive PhD programme in the vibrant city of Cologne, conducted in English
• Individual career mentoring & coaching, wide range of methodology & soft skills courses
• Annual conference travel grants
• Intensive support and guidance for international students in all administrative matters

WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Applicants with an MSc or equivalent degree in Biology, Cell/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Bioinformatics, Biophysics, Genetics, Medical Biology, Translational Medicine, or related fields
• Students with excellent academic performance in their BSc and MSc studies and a clear interest in the above-mentioned research areas, with strong motivation for ageing research
• Candidates with very good English skills (C1 level, written and spoken)

APPLICATION PERIOD: AUGUST 11 - NOVEMBER 3, 2026

We are committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities. Applications from people with disabilities are especially welcome and will be given preference if equally qualified. To increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented, we strongly encourage women to apply.

Our international, interdisciplinary faculty offers positions in cell or molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, bioinformatics, bioengineering, pharmacology, neuroscience, medical biology, translational medicine or related fields.

If you would like to get an idea of last year's projects, you can do so here . Projects for the CGA class of 2027 will be available from August 11, 2026. We invite applicants with a Master's degree or equivalent in the above or related fields.

Applicants holding a medical degree are encouraged to apply, provided they demonstrate adequate relevant research experience.

Proficiency in both written and spoken English at a C1 level is essential. If available, please submit a language assessment result through the application platform to verify your English skills. Submission of a formal language test certificate is not mandatory; alternatively, you may include a written statement…