Summary: The Life Science Zurich Graduate School (a joint program of ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich) invites highly motivated candidates worldwide to apply for fully funded PhD positions in various life science disciplines. The program provides comprehensive education, advanced research training, and career development opportunities in Switzerland.
Overview Table
| Program | Life Science Zurich Graduate School PhD Programs |
|---|---|
| Designation | Doctoral Candidate / PhD Researcher |
| Host Institutions | ETH Zurich & University of Zurich (UZH) |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Target Group | Domestic and International Students (including non-EU) |
| Duration | Approximately 4 years |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded Positions |
| Application Deadlines | 1 May (23:59 CEST) and 1 November (23:59 CET) annually |
Designation
PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher
Research Area
PhD positions span diverse fields across life sciences, including:
- Natural Sciences
- Life Sciences & Molecular Biology
- Computer Sciences & Computational Biology
- Biomedical Engineering & Engineering Sciences
Location
Zurich, Switzerland (University of Zurich and ETH Zurich campuses)
Eligibility / Qualification
To be considered for admission, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:
- Hold or anticipate receiving a recognized university Master’s degree (or equivalent) in the field of natural sciences, computer sciences, or engineering before commencing the program.
- Demonstrate an excellent academic track record.
- Possess strong proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Fulfill the specific doctoral admission requirements of either the University of Zurich (Faculty of Science) or ETH Zurich.
- Both Swiss national and international (including non-EU) applicants are eligible to apply.
Scholarship Description
Doing a PhD at the Life Science Zurich Graduate School places researchers within a large and ambitious scientific community. Key highlights include:
- Fully funded doctoral contracts adhering to the standard salary scales of ETH Zurich or the University of Zurich.
- Challenging and comprehensive doctoral coursework tailored to individual career goals.
- Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure, technology platforms, and collaborative networks.
- Preparation for high-level careers in academia, industry, or public institutions globally.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the online candidate registration portal. Applicants should complete the application form, upload required academic documents (transcripts, certificates, CV), and provide contact details for academic referees.
Note: Certain programs (such as Drug Discovery, Biomedical Ethics and Law – Medical Track, MD-PhD, and specific tracks in Neuroscience) do not recruit via the Track 1 general application platform; prospective candidates should check individual program recruitments.
Last Date to Apply
The regular recruitment deadlines occur twice a year:
- 1 May (23:59 CEST)
- 1 November (23:59 CET)
Apply Link
To learn more and submit your application, visit the official portal: Life Science Zurich Graduate School Application Portal.





