Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research Offers 12 Fully Funded PhD Fellowship Opportunities
Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research Offers 12 Fully Funded PhD Fellowship Opportunities.
The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) in Germany is now accepting applications for 12 fully funded PhD fellowships for its 2026 intake.
Recognised as one of the leading international research environments in ageing and age-related diseases, CGA combines excellence in scientific training with state-of-the-art research facilities.
This highly selective programme is a joint initiative of the University of Cologne, University Hospital Cologne, and the Max Planck Institutes for Biology of Ageing and Metabolism Research.
It aims to prepare ambitious young scientists for successful careers in academia or industry, offering world-class supervision, early research independence, and access to 49 interdisciplinary research groups.
- Application Opens: August 12, 2025
- Application Deadline: November 3, 2025
The PhD programme is open to applicants with academic backgrounds in:
- Biology / Molecular & Cell Biology
- Biochemistry & Biophysics
- Genetics & Bioinformatics
- Bioengineering
- Medical Biology
- Neuroscience
- Translational Medicine
- Other life science-related disciplines
Applicants holding a medical degree with research experience are also encouraged to apply.
To qualify for this fellowship, applicants must:
- Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific field.
- Demonstrate excellent academic performance and strong motivation to pursue ageing research.
- Have English proficiency at C1 level (a formal certificate is recommended but not mandatory, as the entire programme is taught in English).
Eligible Countries
- The programme is open to applicants worldwide.
- Students from all nationalities are encouraged to apply, reflecting CGA’s diverse international research community.
Documents Required
Applicants must prepare the following materials for submission via the CGA PhD portal:
- Statement of prior research experience and motivation for joining the programme.
- Detailed research proposal, including a clear plan of your intended study.
- Choice of three preferred host laboratories within CGA.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with academic history and research achievements.
- Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts.
- Contact information for two referees (one must be your MSc/BSc thesis supervisor).
Successful applicants will receive:
- Fully funded 3+ year employment contracts under TV-L E13 (65%).
- No tuition fees for the duration of the PhD.
- Structured training programme with personalised mentorship and career development support.
- Access to world-class research infrastructure across the University of Cologne, University Hospital, and Max Planck Institutes.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities with 49 advanced research groups.
- Travel grants, workshops, and conferences to expand professional networks.
- Relocation and administrative assistance for international students.
- A dynamic, English-taught programme set in one of Germany’s leading research hubs.
How to Apply
- Visit the official application portal
- Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
- Select three potential host laboratories from the CGA network that align with your research interests.
- Apply before the deadline: November 3, 2025.
Required Documents at a Glance:
- Research statement and motivation letter
- Research proposal
- Choice of host labs
- CV and transcripts
- Certificates of academic qualification
- Contact information for referees
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
- Application Opens: August 12, 2025
- Deadline to Apply: November 3, 2025
- Programme Start: July – October 2026
Whether your background is in biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, bioinformatics, or medical sciences, CGA provides the resources, structure, and international network to launch a high-impact scientific career.
