About
The Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA) in Germany is inviting applications for up to 12 PhD positions for its 2027 class. The programme is a joint initiative involving the University of Cologne, CECAD, the University Hospital Cologne, the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing, and the Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research.
The programme provides an international and interdisciplinary research environment focused on the biology of ageing and age-related diseases. Research areas include cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, bioinformatics, bioengineering, pharmacology, neuroscience, medical biology, translational medicine and related fields.
Selected doctoral researchers receive funded PhD positions and access to state-of-the-art research facilities, structured scientific training, academic supervision, career mentoring and support for international conference travel. The programme is conducted in English and is designed for highly motivated graduates interested in biomedical and life-science research.
Eligibility
Applicants should have an MSc or equivalent degree in a relevant discipline, including:
- Biology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Bioengineering
- Bioinformatics
- Biophysics
- Genetics
- Medical Biology
- Translational Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Related life-science or biomedical fields
Applicants with a medical degree may also apply if they have suitable research experience. The official programme requires excellent written and spoken English at approximately C1 level. The Master’s degree does not necessarily need to have been formally awarded at the time of application, provided it is completed before the PhD start date.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate strong academic performance, relevant research experience and a clear motivation to pursue research in ageing and related biomedical sciences.
How to apply
Applications are submitted online through the official CGA application portal.
- Review the available PhD research projects and identify areas that match your academic and research interests.
- Prepare your CV, academic certificates, transcripts and other supporting documents as PDF files.
- Prepare statements describing your previous research experience and motivation for joining the programme.
- Prepare a detailed research proposal outlining your scientific interests and ideas.
- Select three possible host laboratories.
- Provide contact details for two academic referees, including your most recent research or thesis supervisor where appropriate.
- Complete and submit the online application before the deadline.
The CGA states that applications for the 2027 PhD class are accepted from 11 August to 3 November 2026. Shortlisted candidates are expected to participate in online panel interviews in December 2026, followed by a recruitment week in Cologne in February 2027. PhD positions are anticipated to begin between July and October 2027.
Application: https://www.ageing-grad-school.de/phd/applications
Deadline
3 November 2026
The official CGA website confirms that the application period for the 2027 PhD class runs from 11 August to 3 November 2026.
Contact details
Cologne Graduate School for Ageing Research
Joseph-Stelzmann-Str. 9b/26
50931 Cologne, Germany