The DAAD-GSSP Scholarships 2026 at the International Max Planck Research School for Biology And Computation (IMPRS-BAC) are an excellent opportunity for international students to pursue a fully funded PhD in Germany. Located at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics and Freie Universität Berlin, this highly competitive program offers world-class training in biology, computation, molecular genetics, AI for molecular genetics, systems biology, and bioinformatics.
Funded by the DAAD under the Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP), this scholarship is ideal for highly motivated researchers who aim to pursue advanced doctoral studies in Berlin, one of Europe’s leading scientific and research hubs.
Degree Level
- PhD / Doctoral Studies
Supported Research Areas
The DAAD-GSSP Scholarships at IMPRS-BAC support doctoral research in fields such as:
- Biology
- Computation and Algorithm Development
- Molecular Biology
- Genomic Sciences
- Statistics
- Artificial Intelligence for Molecular Genetics
- Bioinformatics
- Systems Biology
These areas reflect some of the most advanced research fields in Germany, making the program one of the top opportunities for fully funded PhD scholarships in biology and computation.
Scholarship Benefits
- Monthly Funding
- €1,400 monthly stipend (DAAD PhD scholarship)
- Additional Financial Support
- Travel allowance
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Annual research allowance (€460 or €260)
- Possible Extra Benefits
- Monthly rent subsidy
- Family allowances (child and marriage allowance)
- Extra support for applicants with disabilities or chronic illness
- German language course (preparatory)
- Annual supervision/materials allowance (€1,000)
- Academic & Research Benefits
- Full IMPRS-BAC membership
- Access to the Max Planck Institute’s advanced laboratories
- PhD degree from Freie Universität Berlin
- Structured doctoral training under advisory committees
- Funding for conferences and workshops
- Entry into Berlin’s highly active research community
These benefits make IMPRS-BAC one of the best destinations for PhD funding in Germany, especially in bioinformatics, genomics, computational biology, and molecular genetics.
Eligible Nationalities
- Open to all international (non-German) applicants
- Applicants must not have resided in Germany for more than 15 months by April 30, 2026
Eligibility Criteria
Academic Requirements
- Excellent Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
- Strong motivation for PhD-level research
- Must not have completed a PhD previously
- Degree awarded within six years before April 30, 2026
Language Requirements
- Very good English proficiency
- Basic German learning willingness
Residency Requirements
- Non-German citizenship
- Less than 15 months of residence in Germany as of April 30, 2026
Program-Specific Requirements
- Research proposal aligned with IMPRS-BAC research areas
- Readiness for structured PhD training
This makes the scholarship ideal for applicants seeking PhD opportunities in Germany for international students.
Application Procedure
Step 1: Online Submission
Submit required documents through the official IMPRS-BAC application portal.
Step 2: Academic Review
- Applications are assessed based on:
- Academic excellence
- Research proposal strength
- Motivation
- Letters of recommendation
- Fit with IMPRS-BAC research areas (e.g., genomics, bioinformatics, AI in molecular genetics)
Step 3: Nomination to DAAD
Shortlisted candidates are nominated for the DAAD-GSSP selection.
Step 4: DAAD Application Submission
Candidates submit full documents to the DAAD within three weeks.
Step 5: Final DAAD Selection
DAAD reviews and issues the scholarship award.
Step 6: PhD Start in Berlin
- Begin studies between July 1 and November 1, 2026.
- Application Timeline (2026)
- Application Deadline: January 7, 2026 (18:00 CET)
- IMPRS-BAC Nomination to DAAD: By April 30, 2026
- DAAD Final Decision: Mid-June to Mid-August 2026
- Program Start: July-November 2026
Required Documents
- CV (without photo)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Master’s degree proof
- Research proposal
- Motivation letter
- Reference letters
- Proof of English proficiency
- Any additional required documents
- Selection Criteria
- Academic achievements
- Research motivation
- Quality of research proposal
- Background in molecular, biological, or computational sciences
- Strength of reference letters
- Commitment to diversity and scientific excellence
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for the DAAD-GSSP Scholarships at IMPRS-BAC?
International applicants with a strong academic background in biology, computation, molecular genetics, genomics, AI, or bioinformatics can apply.
Do I need prior research experience?
Yes. Strong research experience improves your chances, especially in fields like systems biology, bioinformatics, and molecular genetics.
Can I apply if I live in Germany?
Only if you have lived in Germany for less than 15 months by April 30, 2026.
Is German required for admission?
No. English is required. Basic German is recommended but not mandatory.
How competitive is the scholarship?
It is highly competitive due to the involvement of the Max Planck Institute and the full funding offered through DAAD.
Can I apply without a final Master’s degree?
Yes, if you complete your degree before the program begins.
What fields are preferred?
Applicants in bioinformatics, AI for molecular genetics, genomic sciences, molecular biology, and computational sciences have a strong advantage.
