Summary
The German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Germany, invites applications for its International PhD Program 2026/27 Winter Selection. This fully funded doctoral program offers international students an excellent opportunity to conduct cutting-edge, interdisciplinary cancer research under the guidance of distinguished scientists. PhD positions are funded for at least three years, with competitive salaries, social security benefits, and no tuition fees. Research projects are available in Heidelberg, Dresden, and partner institutions across Germany. The application deadline is 19 October 2026.
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship 2026/27 at German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Germany | International PhD Program
Designation
- Position: International PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher
- Program: DKFZ International PhD Program
- Institution: German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)
- Funding: Fully funded PhD contract
- Duration: Typically 3–4 years, with funding for at least 3 years
- Selection Round: Winter Selection 2026/27
Summary Table
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship/Program | DKFZ International PhD Program |
| Host Institution | German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) |
| Location | Heidelberg, Dresden, and partner sites across Germany |
| Research Areas | Cancer biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, computational biology, physics, chemistry, and related disciplines |
| Funding | Fully funded for at least 3 years |
| Salary | Competitive salary equivalent to approximately 65% of the TVöD E13 pay scale |
| Tuition Fees | No tuition fees |
| Duration | 3–4 years |
| Language | English |
| Application Deadline | 19 October 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online |
Research Area
The program supports interdisciplinary doctoral research in cancer biology and biomedical sciences, including:
- Cancer development, mechanisms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention
- Molecular biology and biochemistry
- Genetics, genomics, and functional and structural biology
- Chemistry and biophysics
- Computational biology, bioinformatics, and data science
- Mathematics, physics, and computer science applications in biomedical research
- Epidemiology, public health, and psychology related to cancer research
Research projects are conducted within DKFZ research groups and partner institutions, including the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), National Centers for Tumor Diseases, the Helmholtz Institute for Translational Oncology (HI-TRON), and the DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center Mannheim.
Location
German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Germany
The main research locations include Heidelberg and Dresden, along with affiliated partner institutions across Germany.
Institutional Address:
German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)
Im Neuenheimer Feld 280
69120 Heidelberg, Germany
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants interested in the DKFZ International PhD Program should review the official admission requirements and application guidelines before submitting an application.
- Academic Background: Candidates should have a relevant university degree in a discipline related to their proposed research project, such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computational biology, computer science, epidemiology, or a related field.
- Degree Requirements: Applicants must meet the program’s academic eligibility requirements for doctoral admission. Check the official admission guidelines for accepted degree types and completion requirements.
- Research Interest: A strong interest in cancer research and interdisciplinary scientific investigation is desirable.
- English Proficiency: The program’s curriculum and scientific training are conducted in English. Applicants should check the official requirements for accepted proof of English proficiency.
- International Applicants: Applications from qualified candidates worldwide are encouraged.
- Diversity and Inclusion: DKFZ welcomes applications from qualified individuals from underrepresented groups, including persons with disabilities and people from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Note: Specific academic qualifications, documentation requirements, and selection criteria may vary. Applicants should consult the official admission guidelines and FAQ before applying.
Job Description / Research Responsibilities
Selected doctoral researchers will conduct original research aimed at understanding cancer development and advancing strategies for cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Key program features include:
- Conducting independent doctoral research within a DKFZ research group or partner institution.
- Investigating fundamental and translational questions related to cancer biology and biomedical science.
- Working in interdisciplinary and international research teams.
- Participating in scientific lectures, seminars, workshops, and professional development activities.
- Receiving individual scientific supervision and guidance through a Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC).
- Preparing research reports, presenting findings, and completing a doctoral dissertation.
- Developing scientific communication, critical-thinking, and research-management skills.
- Accessing career development resources, mentoring, networking events, and alumni support.
The program typically lasts three to four years and provides structured scientific and professional training to prepare graduates for careers in academia, industry, and other research-related sectors.
Scholarship Benefits and Funding
The DKFZ International PhD Program offers comprehensive financial and academic support.
- Full funding: All DKFZ PhD positions are fully funded for at least three years.
- Competitive salary: The PhD contract is approximately equivalent to a TVöD E13 contract at 65% working time.
- Social security benefits: The contract includes contributions toward social security, including pension and health insurance.
- No tuition fees: There are no tuition fees for the program.
- Research training: Access to interdisciplinary research facilities, scientific courses, seminars, and workshops.
- Mentoring: Individual supervision and support from a Thesis Advisory Committee.
- Career development: Access to career guidance, professional development resources, and networking opportunities.
Funding may also be available through individual supervisors or external scholarship organizations, including DAAD, Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds, the German Academic Scholarship Foundation, Volkswagen Foundation, and the China Scholarship Council, subject to their respective eligibility criteria.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should follow these steps:
- Review the application guidelines: Read the official Application Guideline Handbook and the Application FAQs.
- Explore available research projects: Review DKFZ research groups and identify projects aligned with your academic background and research interests.
- Prepare your documents: Gather the academic records, CV, motivation statement, references, and other materials required by the official application guidelines.
- Complete the online application: Access the DKFZ International PhD Program Online Application Portal.
- Submit before the deadline: Ensure that all required information and documents are submitted by 19 October 2026.
- Monitor communications: Check your email for updates regarding the selection process and any additional requirements.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare their applications early and carefully review the updated selection procedure.
Last Date to Apply
19 October 2026
The online application system is currently open for the 2026/27 Winter Selection. Applicants should submit their applications before the deadline and verify all requirements through the official DKFZ website.
Official Links
- Program Website: https://www.dkfz.de/en/career/international-phd-program
- Online Application Portal: https://www.dkfz.de/phd-program/site/index.php
- Admission Requirements and FAQs: https://www.dkfz.de/en/career/international-phd-program/admission-requirements-how-to-apply/application-frequently-asked-questions
- Application Guideline Handbook: https://hub.dkfz.de/s/7fJz3x2P7WtQSqM
Apply now to pursue a fully funded PhD in cancer research at one of Germany’s leading biomedical research institutions.
