Shape the Future of Science –
Fully Funded MSc & PhD Programs in Germany

Join the brightest minds in Cognition, Matter to Life, and Photonics –
with full funding for up to 5 years

Apply annually from September 1 to December 1 for a program start in the subsequent year

Promotional graphic for PhD programs in cognition, photonics, or matter to life, featuring scientific illustrations and an "Apply Here" button.

WHY CHOOSE MAX PLANCK SCHOOLS

🎯 Cutting-edge interdisciplinary research in Cognition, Matter to Life, and Photonics
👩‍🔬 Supervision by leading scientists from top German universities & research institutes
🎓 Integrated MSc & PhD programs – or standalone PhD options
🏛 Early access to world-class research facilities & innovative teaching formats
💰 Fully funded positions – no tuition fees

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CURIOUS MINDS WANTED

Do you dream of exploring the mysteries of (human) cognition, unlocking the science of light, or understanding the very origins of life? At the Max Planck Schools, you will join an elite network of Germany’s top scientists, outstanding mentoring, and benefit from full funding for up to five years – so you can focus entirely on your research.

Start your application!

SECURE YOUR SPOT

APPLY HERE

A person stands wearing a burgundy short-sleeved shirt with button details, paired with dark trousers. One hand is casually placed in a pocket, and the wrist features a watch. The background is neutral, enhancing the focus on the clothing and accessories.

"Without the excellent opportunities provided by the Max Planck School of Cognition, I could not have explored the research interest I am passionate about. Most valuable to me is the access to top researchers, the multiple forums to engage with amazing peers and early career researchers, and the focus on inter-discipline and cross-discipline thinking.”
Saurabh Biswas
PhD Candidate MPS of Cognition

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“The Max Planck School Matter to Life not only broadened my research ambitions, it also offered me the chance to connect with peers who later became close friends of mine. Beyond academical environment, the program gave me a deeper appreciation of German culture and traditions, which ultimately enriched me both professionally and personally”
Polina Malova
PhD Candidate MPS Matter to Life

A person wearing a dark blue suit, paired with a white shirt and a red-patterned tie, stands in front of a bright background. Hands in their trouser pockets.

“For me, the Max Planck School of Photonics was the right opportunity at the right time. The program really matched all the criteria I was looking for. I chose the Max Planck School of Photonics because, out of all the different opportunities I came across, it felt like the most interesting option. And after two years, I can say I do not regret my choice.”
Daniele Ronchetti
PhD candidate MPS of Photonics

Find YOUR Max Planck School

A female subject is wearing a cap with multiple sensors attached to it, as part of a cognitive research experiment. A male scientist is observing data on a computer screen connected to the sensors.

Max Planck School of Cognition

Cognition research covers topics from disciplines as diverse as psychology, physics, computer science, philosophy, biology and medicine. In this rapidly developing research field scientists with access to the methods and approaches of the various disciplines are in high demand. We are driven by the passion to better understand human cognition and "mental phenomena" (potentially) occuring in non-biological systems and agents.

We are looking for ambitious and qualified candidates with a Bachelor’s and / or Master’s degree in a field related to cognition, such as artificial intelligence, biology, cognitive neuroscience/neuroscience, genetics, linguistics, mathematics, neurobiology, neurology, neurophysics, philosophy, physics, psychiatry or psychology. more

A scientist is holding a pair of tweezers, carefully manipulating a small sample in a petri dish. The scientist is wearing blue gloves and is focused on the delicate task.

Max Planck School Matter to Life

What, exactly, is life? Can processes, functions and objects related to life be simulated and recreated in the laboratory? These are the overarching questions addressed in the curriculum and research training of the Max Planck School Matter to Life.

We invite top undergraduate candidates with backgrounds in physics, chemistry, biology, materials science or engineering (or a related sub-field) that are interested in applying physical science principles to the study of life. more

A female scientist is working on a photonics experiment in a lab. She is focused on adjusting small optical components on a table illuminated by a bright light source.

Max Planck School of Photonics

Photonics is the science of light, enabling numerous modern technologies such as non-contact sensors, quantum computers and energy and information carriers. The Max Planck School of Photonics unites Germany's leading scientists in many subdisciplines to light up the world.

We encourage candidates with a very good Bachelor's and/or Master's degree with significant exposure to physics, engineering or a related subject (B.Sc., B.Eng., or B.Tech. and M.Sc., M.Eng. or M.Tech.) to apply. more

APPLY NOW FOR FALL 2026 AND KICKSTART YOUR CAREER!

Shape the Future of Science –Fully Funded MSc & PhD Programs in Germany