DAAD-GSSP Scholarships 2026 at Max Planck Institute (Full Process)

In a major announcement for global researchers, the International Max Planck Research School for Biology and Computation (IMPRS-BAC) has opened its doors to international PhD aspirants for the DAAD-GSSP Scholarships 2026. This fully funded opportunity, offered jointly by the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics (MPI-MG) and Freie Universität Berlin, is one of Germany’s most prestigious doctoral programs bridging biology, computation, and artificial intelligence.

DAAD GSSP 2026 Scholarship Comes With Following Package

Selected scholars receive full financial and academic support, including:

• €1,400 monthly stipend
• Travel and insurance allowances
• Research funding (€260–460 per year)
• Optional rent and family allowances
• Language course and research supervision support (€1,000/year)

If you’re an ambitious graduate dreaming of joining the German research ecosystem, here’s your step-by-step guide on how to apply for this highly competitive scholarship.

Step 1: Review the Program and Research Focus

Before applying, explore the IMPRS-BAC research fields — ranging from molecular biology and genomics to computational algorithms, AI, and bioinformatics. Each PhD student develops an independent research project aligned with one of the institute’s faculty members.

Visit the official IMPRS-BAC website to identify potential supervisors and research topics that best match your academic background.

Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements

The DAAD-GSSP program targets international doctoral candidates who meet the following criteria:

• You are not a German citizen and have not lived in Germany for more than 15 months by April 30, 2026.
• You hold an excellent Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a field relevant to biology, computation, or related sciences.
• You possess strong English proficiency (no German required at the start, but a willingness to learn is expected).
• You have not previously completed a PhD, and your last degree was earned within six years before April 30, 2026.

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Prepare the following materials carefully — incomplete applications will not be accepted:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (without photo)
• Motivation Letter describing your academic goals and research interest
• Academic transcripts and certificates (Bachelor’s & Master’s)
• Proof of English proficiency (if available)
• Two academic recommendation letters
• Research proposal or project interest statement aligned with IMPRS-BAC research areas

Ensure all documents are formatted in PDF and organized before uploading.

Step 4: Submit Your Online Application

All applications must be submitted online via the IMPRS-BAC Application Portal.

• The portal allows you to select preferred supervisors and upload your complete application package.
• Double-check all entries for accuracy before final submission — late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Application Deadline: January 7, 2026 (18:00 CET).

Step 5: IMPRS-BAC Nomination and DAAD Review

After the internal evaluation, the IMPRS-BAC selection committee will nominate successful candidates to the DAAD by April 30, 2026.

• If you’re nominated, you will receive an official email invitation to apply directly to DAAD within three weeks.
• The DAAD will then review your eligibility and finalize your scholarship award between mid-June and mid-August 2026.

Step 6: Scholarship Confirmation and Start

Once approved by DAAD, you’ll receive an official award letter confirming your funding and research placement.
Successful candidates can begin their PhD studies and DAAD-GSSP scholarship between July 1 and November 1, 2026.

Pro Tip: Strengthen Your Application

To stand out among global applicants:

• Highlight your research alignment with IMPRS-BAC faculty interests.
• Demonstrate interdisciplinary thinking between biology and computation.
• Request recommendation letters from professors who can emphasize your research potential and leadership skills.
• Keep your statement of purpose concise, clear, and focused on scientific curiosity.

Important Dates to Remember

The application process for the DAAD-GSSP Scholarships 2026 follows a structured timeline. All interested candidates must submit their online applications by January 7, 2026 (18:00 CET). After the internal review, the IMPRS-BAC will nominate selected applicants to the DAAD by April 30, 2026.

Those nominated will then be required to complete their DAAD application within three weeks of receiving the nomination notice. The final decision from the DAAD is expected between mid-June and mid-August 2026, and successful candidates can begin their doctoral studies and scholarship tenure between July 1 and November 1, 2026.