The Max Planck DAAD GSSP Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded PhD opportunity in Germany for exceptional international students who want to pursue advanced research in biology, computation, and molecular genetics. Offered jointly by the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this program provides global scholars the chance to engage in cutting-edge scientific projects while receiving full financial support.
Through this prestigious scholarship, you can conduct world-class research under the supervision of leading professors at Freie Universität Berlin and the Max Planck Institute, without worrying about tuition or living expenses.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Germany
- Host Institution: Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics
- Degree Level: PhD
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Nationalities: All international students
- Application Deadline: January 7, 2026
About the Max Planck DAAD GSSP Program
The Max Planck Institute DAAD-GSSP PhD Scholarship 2026–2027 is designed for highly motivated and talented researchers from around the world who are passionate about interdisciplinary research in life sciences, computational biology, and molecular genetics.
Scholars will work within the International Max Planck Research School for Biology And Computation (IMPRS-BAC) — a dynamic, international community in Berlin, one of Europe’s leading scientific and innovation hubs. Here, researchers collaborate at the intersection of AI, genomics, and biological computation, turning innovative ideas into groundbreaking discoveries.
The program offers mentorship from top academic supervisors, advanced laboratory access, and a stimulating learning environment that fosters both academic and professional growth.
Financial Coverage and Benefits
The Max Planck DAAD GSSP Scholarship 2026 provides comprehensive financial support for all selected PhD students, including:
- Monthly stipend: €1,400
- Travel allowance for international relocation
- Health, accident, and liability insurance
- Annual research allowance:
- €460 for applicants from DAC-listed countries
- €260 for other international candidates
- Additional benefits:
- Rent subsidy (€50 – €125 per month)
- Family allowance (€200 per child, €275 for married candidates)
- Financial support for students with disabilities or chronic illnesses
- Free German language course (if required)
- Material and supervision allowance: €1,000 per year
- Full IMPRS-BAC membership for up to four years
- PhD degree awarded by Freie Universität Berlin (internationally recognized)
- Access to international conferences, seminars, and workshops
- Comprehensive academic mentorship through a dedicated Thesis Advisory Committee
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Max Planck DAAD GSSP Scholarship 2026 in Germany, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Open to international students from all nationalities (German citizenship not required).
- Must have a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant scientific discipline with strong academic performance.
- Demonstrate a genuine interest in interdisciplinary research combining computation and molecular biology.
- Must have strong English proficiency and willingness to learn basic German.
- Should not already hold a PhD degree.
- Applicants must have resided in Germany for no longer than 15 months as of April 30, 2026.
- The Master’s degree must have been obtained within six years before April 30, 2026.
Required Documents
- Completed online application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Scanned copy of passport
- Updated CV or resume
- Motivation letter / research interest statement (if required)
Application Timeline and Deadline
- Application Deadline: January 7, 2026
- IMPRS-BAC will nominate shortlisted candidates to the DAAD by April 30, 2026.
- Selected nominees will have three weeks to complete their official DAAD application.
- Scholarship start date: Between July 1 and November 1, 2026.
- Final DAAD selection results will be announced between mid-June and mid-August 2026.
How to Apply for the Max Planck DAAD GSSP Scholarship 2026
- Submit your application online through the official IMPRS-BAC application portal.
- Ensure all required documents are complete and meet eligibility standards.
- Await the internal selection and nomination process by IMPRS-BAC.
- Nominated candidates will be contacted to complete the DAAD online application.
Only applications submitted through the official IMPRS-BAC online portal will be considered.
Visit the Official Website to begin your application and read detailed program guidelines.
The Max Planck DAAD GSSP Scholarship 2026 offers a prestigious opportunity to pursue a fully funded PhD in Germany at one of the world’s top research institutions. It provides comprehensive financial coverage, global networking opportunities, and access to cutting-edge research facilities.
If you are passionate about advancing scientific knowledge in computational biology or molecular genetics, this is one of the best DAAD scholarships in Germany to apply for in 2026.
