Summary
The International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS) offers a highly competitive doctoral program for aspiring researchers. This interdisciplinary program, a collaboration between the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, the University of Stuttgart, and the University of Tübingen, focuses on cutting-edge research in various fields related to intelligent systems. Admitted students receive full financial support through an employment contract.
IMPRS-IS Doctoral Program: International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems
Designation
Doctoral Researcher / PhD Candidate
Key Scholarship Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Program Type | Doctoral (PhD) Program |
| Funding | Fully Funded (Employment Contract) |
| Application Portal Status | Opens Annually in September |
| Next Application Deadline | November 15, 2026 (End of Day, AoE) |
| Hiring Round | 2027 |
| Program Start | February 2027 or later |
Research Areas
IMPRS-IS seeks students to contribute to world-leading research in areas such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Biomedical Technology
- Computational Cognitive Science
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Vision
- Control Systems
- Data Science & Visualization
- Haptics
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Machine Learning
- Micro- and Nano-Robotics
- Natural Language Processing
- Neuroscience
- Perceptual Inference
- Robotics
- Soft Robotics and Materials
Location
Stuttgart and Tübingen, Germany
Eligibility/Qualification
Who is eligible to apply?
- Individuals with a strong academic background and a Master’s degree (conferred or expected soon) in Engineering, Computer Science, Cognitive Science, Mathematics, Control Theory, Neuroscience, Materials Science, Physics, or related fields.
- Existing doctoral students currently working under the supervision of an IMPRS-IS faculty or associated faculty member are eligible to apply during their first year of doctoral studies.
Additional Information:
- IMPRS-IS explicitly encourages women to apply to increase representation in underrepresented areas.
- The program is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity.
Scholarship Description
The IMPRS-IS doctoral program is a prestigious interdisciplinary initiative established in 2017, now the largest of its kind within the Max Planck Society, with guaranteed funding through at least 2030. It offers an exceptional opportunity to earn a doctorate while engaging in world-leading research in intelligent systems. Admission is highly competitive, and selected applicants will receive full financial support via an employment contract, adhering to the regulations of the Max Planck Society and the participating universities. The selection process includes a careful review of submitted materials, followed by personal interviews in Stuttgart and Tübingen for a selected group of applicants. Interview travel costs are covered by IMPRS-IS.
How to Apply
To apply to the IMPRS-IS doctoral program, please submit the following materials online through the application portal:
- Personal Contact Information: Your complete contact details.
- Faculty Interest List: A list of IMPRS-IS faculty members you are interested in working with. Applicants are encouraged to identify preferred research areas and supervisors.
- Current Résumé or CV: This should include your educational background, work experience, full citations for any publications, details of research presentations, and any awards received.
- Unofficial Transcripts: Transcripts from all your university studies.
- Motivational Letter (Two Pages): This letter should explain why you wish to pursue a doctorate with IMPRS-IS and describe research areas or specific projects that interest you.
- Reference Letters: Names and email addresses for three individuals who can provide reference letters. Past and current research advisors are particularly valued. Please ensure your referees submit their letters by the application deadline.
- English Proficiency: TOEFL scores or other evidence of English proficiency for non-native speakers (e.g., having studied/worked in an English-speaking environment, having written a thesis/paper in English).
- Optional Documents: GRE scores, a thesis, published paper, or project portfolio.
Important Note on AI Usage:
AI tools may be used to improve clarity, grammar, style, and overall quality of written language. However, they must not be used to generate ideas, develop concepts, or produce original intellectual content. All ideas, analyses, and substantive contributions must originate from the applicant.
Last Date for Apply
November 15, 2026 (End of Day, Anywhere on Earth – AoE)
Apply Link
