Summary
The Life Science Zurich Graduate School (LSZ) — a joint doctoral training initiative of ETH Zürich and the University of Zurich — is inviting applications for funded PhD positions. Successful applicants will join a vibrant life science research community, receive a comprehensive doctoral education and pursue a research project at a leading Swiss institution. PhD programs typically last around four years and are open to national and international candidates.
Designation
PhD Candidate / Doctoral Researcher
Key Details
| Research Area | Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Computer Sciences, Engineering (including interdisciplinary tracks) |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland — ETH Zürich and University of Zurich |
| Funding | Funded PhD positions (salary/fellowship provided for the duration of the PhD) |
| Duration | Approximately 4 years |
| Application Deadlines | 1 May (23:59 CEST) and 1 November (23:59 CET) |
| Apply Link | https://www.lifescience-graduatechool.uzh.ch/en/application.html |
Research Area
LSZ covers a broad range of life science disciplines and interdisciplinary research combining biology, medicine, chemistry, physics, computer science and engineering. Please check individual PhD program descriptions for specific thematic focuses and special tracks.
Location
Doctoral research and training take place in Zurich across the ETH Zürich and the University of Zurich, providing access to world-class laboratories, infrastructure and a strong collaborative network.
Eligibility / Qualification
- You must hold, or expect to receive, a university Master’s degree or equivalent in life sciences, natural sciences, computer sciences, engineering or a closely related field.
- Excellent academic record and research potential.
- Good command of spoken and written English.
- Applications are accepted from national and international candidates (including non-EU students).
- Check host institution admission rules for further details: University of Zurich and ETH Zürich admission requirements.
Scholarship Description
The LSZ PhD positions are funded and designed to deliver a comprehensive doctoral education. Funding typically covers salary or a fellowship for the duration of the PhD (around four years). As an LSZ PhD candidate you will:
- Belong to a large, interdisciplinary life science research community.
- Receive structured training, mentoring and career development opportunities.
- Collaborate with leading researchers at ETH Zürich and the University of Zurich.
How to Apply
Follow these general steps to submit an application:
- Review the LSZ application process and the specific PhD program requirements on the LSZ website.
- Prepare required documents (CV, cover letter, transcripts, references, research proposal as required by the chosen program).
- Create a candidate account and register via the LSZ candidate registration portal.
- Select the appropriate track/program and submit your complete application before the deadline.
- Consult the LSZ FAQ for common questions and contact the program coordinators or prospective PIs when needed.
Useful pages:
Last Date for Apply
Standard deadlines: 1 May (23:59 CEST) and 1 November (23:59 CET).
Note: Some programs are not recruiting via the general Track 1 application platform. For example, certain tracks such as Neuroscience (specific recruitment windows), Drug Discovery, Biomedical Ethics and Law (Medical Track) and the MD-PhD program may follow different application procedures or timelines — check program pages for exact dates and requirements.
Apply Link
Start your application and find full instructions here: https://www.lifescience-graduateschool.uzh.ch/en/application.html
