Fully funded PhD positions in Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Genetics, Structural and Cell Biology

Fully funded PhD positions
Young Researchers
Cologne
Developmental and Evolutionary Biology & Genetics
Structural and Cell Biology
Job Offer from August 11, 2026
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 Ageing-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 (m/f/d). 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, a 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
Online application:
https://application.ageing-grad-school.de
Contact:
cga-coordination@uni-koeln.de
Website:
https://www.ageing-grad-school.de
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.