Max Planck DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2026 – Fully Funded PhD

Dreaming of a fully-funded PhD opportunity in Europe? The DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2026 at the Max Planck Institute (MPI) in Berlin make this possible. This competitive scholarship, supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), invites exceptional international students to pursue doctoral research at the International Max Planck Research School for Biology and Computation (IMPRS-BAC). IMPRS-BAC is a joint PhD program of the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics and Freie Universität Berlin that focuses on cutting-edge projects bridging molecular biology with computational analysis.

The scholarship fully covers your PhD expenses so you can focus on research, not finances. You’ll receive a living stipend, allowances and research funding, along with German language support and academic resources. Recipients join a vibrant international community in Berlin – Europe’s science hub – and earn a prestigious doctoral degree from Freie Universität Berlin.

Overview of the Scholarship & Program

The DAAD GSSP (Graduate School Scholarship Programme) 2026 provides two fully-funded PhD positions (up to 4 years) in the IMPRS-BAC program. Funded by DAAD, this initiative aims to support interdisciplinary research at German graduate schools. The IMPRS-BAC graduate school offers comprehensive training in molecular biology and computation. Doctoral students can specialize in areas such as genome biology, chromatin and epigenetics, computational genomics, bioinformatics, algorithms and AI for genetics. Each scholar designs a personalized research project under world-class supervision at MPI for Molecular Genetics (Max Planck Society) or Freie Universität Berlin.

Degree & Institution: Successful applicants will be awarded a PhD (Dr. rer. nat.) from Freie Universität Berlin, earned through their research at IMPRS-BAC. The Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics is part of Germany’s renowned Max Planck Society, dedicated to decoding genome function through experimental and computational methods. Freie Universität Berlin is a top research university in Berlin collaborating on this program.

Scholarship Details: The DAAD-GSSP scholarship is fully funded. It covers living costs and research expenses (see Benefits section). It does not charge tuition – German PhD candidates typically pay no tuition fees, only a small administrative semester fee. In effect, scholars receive a tuition waiver through this program. By removing financial barriers (including living costs and project expenses), the scholarship lets you concentrate on achieving academic excellence in an inspiring environment.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2026 at IMPRS-BAC, applicants must meet the following criteria (please check official announcements for any updates):

• Master’s degree (or equivalent): Applicants need a strong academic record and an above-average Master’s in a relevant field (e.g. molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, mathematics, computer science, etc.).
• Academic excellence: No prior PhD – you should not have completed a doctoral degree before applying.
• Non-German citizenship: Candidates must be citizens of a country other than Germany.
• Limited stay in Germany: By 30 April 2026, applicants should not have been resident in Germany for more than 15 months in total.
• Graduation date: You should have earned your Bachelor’s/Master’s within the last 6 years (before 30 April 2026). There are few exceptions for longer intervals (see DAAD info).
• Language skills: Very good English proficiency is required, as English is the working language. Basic German is not required but a willingness to learn is expected.
• Research fit & motivation: Candidates should demonstrate a clear motivation for doctoral study in this interdisciplinary field. Applications are competitive and based on qualifications, proposal, and references.

Meeting these requirements does not guarantee selection, as the process is highly competitive. Applicants are advised to carefully prepare a strong research proposal and CV, emphasizing their suitability for this biology-and-computation program.

Coverage / Benefits

The DAAD GSSP scholarship provides an extensive funding package and support:

• Monthly stipend: €1,400 gross living allowance per month.
• Travel allowance: Annual grant for international travel related to research.
• Insurance: Full health, accident and personal liability insurance coverage during the scholarship.
• Research allowance: Up to €460 per year (if from a DAC-list country) or €260 (others) for consumables and data costs.
• Additional monthly grants: If applicable, scholars may receive housing subsidies (approx. €50–125/month), child allowances (~€200 per child), marriage allowance (~€275), and support for disability-related costs.
• Language and research allowances: A preparatory German language course (if needed) and a €1,000/year materials and supervision allowance are provided.
• Full PhD program membership: Scholars enjoy all benefits of being in the IMPRS-BAC community for up to four years (no tuition, only a small €300–350 semester fee).
• Doctoral degree: Successful candidates earn a doctorate from Freie Universität Berlin, a globally recognized university.
• Academic support: Excellent supervision is arranged via a dedicated Thesis Advisory Committee and mentoring from both MPI and university faculty.
• Training and networking: Access to a flexible curriculum with science courses, transferable skills workshops, and support for attending conferences and seminars.
• Vibrant environment: Research in one of Europe’s top science hubs (Berlin), in an interdisciplinary and international setting.

This comprehensive funding effectively covers tuition (no fees) and living costs, making the scholarship akin to a full tuition waiver and living grant. In short, DAAD-GSSP scholars can focus solely on their research without financial stress.

Host Country & University Info

Germany is an ideal host for PhD studies. It is known for world-class research infrastructure and often charges no tuition fees for doctoral candidates. Berlin, the capital, is an international, multicultural city and a major science and innovation center. Living costs in Berlin are reasonable compared to other capitals, and most residents speak English well. The DAAD-GSSP program also provides a preparatory German course, helping you integrate smoothly.

Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics (MPIMG) is one of the world’s leading institutes for genome research. Scientists at MPIMG aim to understand how genomes function and are regulated – from embryonic development to disease – using cutting-edge laboratory and computational methods. The IMPRS-BAC program is based here, in collaboration with Freie Universität Berlin. Founded in 1948, FU Berlin is among Germany’s top universities, with strong science and computer science faculties. Together, MPI and FU Berlin offer an exceptional environment for interdisciplinary PhD training.

Note: There are no tuition fees in Germany for PhD studies; you only pay a modest administrative fee (~€300 per semester). This makes the financial benefits of the DAAD scholarship even stronger.

Application Process (Step-by-Step)

1. Online Application (by January 7, 2026): Find your research project and supervisor from the IMPRS-BAC list and submit an online application via the IMPRS-BAC portal. Include your CV, transcripts, diplomas, language certificates, and a strong research proposal. Make sure to meet the deadline of 7 January 2026, 18:00 CET.
2. Initial Selection: The IMPRS-BAC admissions committee reviews all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to join IMPRS-BAC; among them, the school will nominate two candidates for the DAAD GSSP scholarship by 30 April 2026.
3. DAAD Nomination & Application: Nominated applicants must then submit the official DAAD scholarship application (through DAAD’s portal) within 3 weeks of nomination. This includes the DAAD forms, references, and any additional documents.
4. Selection Results: The DAAD conducts its final review. Notification of scholarship decisions is expected between mid-June and mid-August 2026.
5. Start of Scholarship: If selected by DAAD, you will receive the scholarship and can begin your PhD between 1 July and 1 November 2026. At this point, arrange visa/residence formalities.
6. Admission & Enrollment: Once approved, complete any remaining enrollment steps at Freie Universität Berlin. You will then officially start your doctoral studies as a DAAD-GSSP scholar.

Important: Use only the official IMPRS-BAC online portal for your initial application. Follow all instructions carefully, and double-check that you submit every required document (see their call announcement or FAQ).

Important Deadlines

• January 7, 2026 (18:00 CET): Application deadline for IMPRS-BAC (GSSP scholarships).
• April 30, 2026: IMPRS-BAC nominates selected candidates to DAAD for final scholarship funding.
• Mid-June to Mid-August 2026: DAAD announces final scholarship results and admittance decisions.
• July 1 – November 1, 2026: Start of DAAD-GSSP scholarships (PhD program begins).

Plan well in advance. Missing the January deadline means waiting another year. Set reminders and prepare your documents early!

Tips for Applicants

• Align with Program Themes: Tailor your research proposal to the intersection of biology and computation. Show how your background (e.g. in molecular biology, bioinformatics, mathematics or computer science) fits IMPRS-BAC’s focus.
• Highlight Motivation: In your motivation letter, explain why Berlin and the IMPRS-BAC community excite you. Mention any relevant projects or skills (e.g. coding, lab experience). Let your passion for interdisciplinary research shine.
• Secure Strong References: Obtain recommendation letters from professors or mentors who know you well. Ideally, they should address both your academic achievements and your potential for research.
• Proofread Carefully: Write clear, error-free documents in English. Follow the application guidelines exactly (format, length, required forms). A well-presented application shows professionalism.
• Mention International Experience: If you have experience working/studying abroad or collaborating internationally, highlight it. The program values cross-cultural adaptability.
• Plan Ahead: Gather transcripts, diplomas and English test scores (if needed) early. Start the application process with time to spare so you’re not rushed near the deadline.
• Engage with the Community: If possible, reach out to current students or faculty (via email or academic forums) with thoughtful questions. This can give you insight and show genuine interest.

Remember: This is highly competitive. Play to your strengths and show how you will benefit from and contribute to the program. A confident, well-prepared application stands out!

Apply for DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2026 to secure your fully-funded PhD position at Max Planck Institute. This is your chance – don’t miss out!

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Conclusion

The Max Planck DAAD GSSP Scholarship 2026 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for motivated students to pursue a fully-funded PhD in molecular biology and computation in Germany. With a generous stipend, research support, and academic mentorship in one of Europe’s leading science hubs, this scholarship removes financial barriers so you can focus on cutting-edge research. If you meet the criteria, start your application today, and tell fellow students about this chance! Good luck with your application and future research career.

FAQ

Q: What is a DAAD GSSP Scholarship?
A: The DAAD GSSP Scholarship is a fully-funded PhD scholarship by the German Academic Exchange Service for international students in Germany, supporting interdisciplinary research (e.g. at IMPRS-BAC).

Q: Who is eligible for the DAAD GSSP Scholarship?
A: International (non-German) candidates with an excellent Master’s in a relevant field, strong English skills, no prior PhD, and less than 15 months of stay in Germany.

Q: What does the DAAD GSSP Scholarship cover?
A: It covers a monthly stipend of €1,400, plus a travel allowance, health/accident insurance, and research funding. Additional benefits (housing subsidies, family allowance, etc.) are also provided.

Q: What is the application deadline?
A: The application deadline for DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2026 at IMPRS-BAC is January 7, 2026 (18:00 CET).

Q: How do I apply?
A: You must submit an online PhD application through the official IMPRS-BAC portal by the deadline. Shortlisted applicants are then nominated to DAAD for the final selection process.

Q: Where is the program hosted?
A: The program is based in Berlin, Germany, at the International Max Planck Research School for Biology and Computation (IMPRS-BAC), a collaboration of MPI for Molecular Genetics and Freie Universität Berlin.

Good luck, and feel free to share this guide with friends who might benefit!