PhD Positions › Germany

Molecular Biology of Ageing PhD Programme

University of Cologne · CGA PhD Programme (CECAD, University Hospital Cologne, MPI Biology of Ageing, MPI Metabolism Research)

🇩🇪 Cologne, Germany
Life & Health Sciences
Open to Indian applicants
Apply by 3 Nov 2026 (IST)
For Indian applicants
Pay
TV-L E13 65% employment contract; approx. EUR 2,060/month net in year 1 (as stated by CGA) ≈ ₹2.2 lakh/month netAbout 6× the UGC JRF fellowship of ₹37,000/month
Eligible degrees
Master's degree (or equivalent such as MD) in a life or natural science, e.g. M.Sc. Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, or MBBS/MD with research experience; degree must be in hand by the PhD start (July-October 2027). A Bachelor's alone does not qualify.
Tests
English at C1 level; a formal test certificate is optional (other evidence or a written statement accepted)
Duration
At least 3 years (initial contract)
Start
2027-07 to 2027-10 (anticipated)

About the project

The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research recruits a yearly cohort of doctoral students to study why and how organisms age and what goes wrong in age-related diseases. Students join one of many host labs spread across a university excellence cluster, the university hospital and two Max Planck Institutes, and choose a project after a multi-stage selection that includes online interviews and a recruitment week in Cologne. Typical work covers cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, model organisms, neuroscience or bioinformatics applied to ageing. Strong lab skills, a clear interest in mechanisms of disease, and fluent English help most. The programme supports international students with visas, housing and free German classes.

Who this suits: EduSail Abroad mentor note

Suits an Indian M.Sc. Biotech/Biochem/Life Sciences or MBBS graduate with solid wet-lab experience who wants a structured, well-supported first move abroad.

Listed by EduSail Abroad on 6 Oct 2026. Always confirm the final details and deadline on the university's original posting. Read our guide to fully-funded PhD in Germany.

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