The Max Planck School of Biomedical Artificial Intelligence (BMAI) is inviting applications for 25 fully funded PhD positions for its upcoming doctoral cohort. This competitive and highly interdisciplinary program operates at the intersection of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the life sciences, connecting top-tier researchers and institutions across Germany.
Overview & Key Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opportunity | 25 PhD Positions (m/f/d) |
| Host Institution | Max Planck School of Biomedical AI (BMAI) / Max Planck Society |
| Location | Participating Institutes across Germany (including Martinsried / Munich Hub) |
| Program Duration | 3 Years (Structured Doctoral Program) |
| Funding | Fully Funded (Competitive Employment Contract) |
| Application Deadline | December 1, 2026 |
| Program Start | September 2027 |
Designation
Doctoral Researcher / PhD Candidate (m/f/d) – 25 Openings
Research Area
BMAI doctoral researchers develop and deploy innovative computational and AI methods to tackle complex challenges in biomedical and life sciences. The research spans four primary interconnected domains:
- Molecular and cellular systems biology
- Protein, molecule, and drug design
- Complex biological traits and systems genetics
- Neural networks and computational neuroscience
Location
Positions are based at participating partner universities and research institutions throughout Germany (with administrative coordination via the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry in Martinsried / Munich).
Scholarship Description & Benefits
Selected candidates will join an elite, collaborative network of more than 30 research groups. Successful applicants receive:
- Competitive Employment Contract: Full funding under German public service scales for the 3-year PhD duration.
- Dual Supervision: Individual mentoring and co-supervision by two BMAI Fellows from complementary disciplines.
- Interdisciplinary Training: Recurring one-week intensive schools offering advanced scientific training, networking, and soft skills development.
- Travel & Conference Funding: Dedicated budget for annual participation in top international scientific conferences.
- World-Class Infrastructure: Direct access to state-of-the-art computational facilities and laboratory environments across German research institutions.
Eligibility & Qualification Criteria
- Applicants must hold (or expect to complete before program start) an excellent Master’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Physics, or a related quantitative field.
- Graduates from the Life Sciences (e.g., Biology, Biomedicine, Bioinformatics) are strongly encouraged to apply, provided they have a solid computational background and extensive programming experience.
- High motivation for interdisciplinary collaboration between machine learning and biological sciences.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through the centralized online application portal of the Max Planck School of Biomedical AI. Applicants are typically required to submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor’s and Master’s)
- A statement of motivation highlighting research interests and alignment with BMAI research tracks
- Contact details of academic referees for recommendation letters
Important Dates
- Applications Open: September 1, 2026
- Last Date to Apply: December 1, 2026
- Program Start: September 2027
Application Link
For complete program details, list of participating fellows, and to submit your online application, please visit the official listing:
Apply Here: Max Planck School of Biomedical AI PhD Positions
