Matter to Life (PhD Phase)

Disciplines

• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology

Overview

In Max Planck School Matter to Life's Matter to Life (PhD Phase), you will apply the knowledge and experiences gained from the first phase to a specific research question. You can further develop on latest scientific achievements and apply cutting edge technologies to push the boundaries of science. The unique structure of the MtL programme provides access to the dynamic MtL community, allowing you to build and continuously expand your scientific network. We highly encourage our students to use this opportunity to collaborate and exchange ideas and technical know-how within the MtL network as well as with cooperation partners outside Germany.

Key facts

Once you have finished the first phase of Matter to Life with an average grade of 2.0 or better, you can progress to the second phase of the Matter to Life graduate programme. You will work with a Matter to Life faculty member on a mutually agreed research project. You will have access to cutting-edge science and modern research facilities as well as to the excellent network of students and Fellows in Matter to Life.

During the Master phase, you have enough time and plenty of opportunities to get to know the MtL Fellows in order to choose a project during the PhD phase that is compatible to your interests and aptitude. Therefore, it is not necessary to think about projects or contact a Fellow before the programme actually starts.

In order to ensure the best supervision during this phase, your progress will be periodically evaluated in annual meetings with your thesis advisory committee. This committee consists of scientific experts in your research area, who can offer additional support and guidance for your project. Two ombudspersons from the faculty are available to help students in case of any issues relating to their thesis. These measures ensure a broad scientific input, exchange and collaborations, mediations in case of conflicts, and overall, continuous guidance.

You will also have the opportunity to participate and contribute to various events, such as the MtL Days, MPS Days, and Ringberg symposium, which will strengthen your connection with the MtL network, and greatly benefit from it.

Programme Structure

On this program you will:

• You will have access to cutting-edge science and modern research facilities
• We strongly encourage exchange and collaborations within the MtL network as well as with cooperation partners outside of Germany
• In order to ensure the best supervision and support during this phase, similarly to the Master phase, you will have the option to consult a mentor and discuss scientific as well as career-oriented topics
• Your progress will be evaluated during an annual meeting with your thesis advisory committee consisting of scientific experts in your research area, thus offering additional support and guidance for your project
• You will participate and contribute to various events, including scientific symposia and conferences, skill and career workshops and community events designed to follow the needs and interests of our students

Admission requirements

Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL iBT: 90

IELTS: 6.5

Other requirements

General requirements

• We invite undergraduate students with a background in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Materials Science or Engineering (or a related sub-field) to apply to our program
• Whether your previous study is relevant will be decided on a case-by-case basis and depends on your transcript and specific modules you have completed
• Your previous study needs to have an equivalent of 96 ECTS
• Solid knowledge of the English language is necessary for your success in the program, which will be conducted entirely in English. An internationally-accepted language test is required for non-native English speakers (exceptions if your previous program was taught completely in English); proof of proficiency can be submitted after the selection process
• For detailed admission criteria, please check our website

Fees and funding

Tuition Fees

International: Free

EU/EEA: Free

Living costs

Heidelberg, Germany: 1,492-2,261 AUD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Students will be employed on a full employment contract according to the local Wage Agreement for Public Service.